Name: Nicole Herman
Instagram: @socialdesignstudio.co @socialdesignsupplyco
Website: www.socialdesignstudio.co
Age: 42
Title: Founder + Principal Designer
Married/Single: Married 17 years to a cool guy I met in college.
Kids: 14-year-old daughter Brenna and 11-year-old son Mason.
City you live in: Scottsdale
A typical day in my life includes… Organized chaos (in the best way) — I start my day with a 5:30 am run or gym time, checking early emails, dropping the kids off at school, site visits, client calls/texts/Zoom meetings, focused design time, and then home for our nightly family dinner. We end the day with a night swim or walk, depending on the season.
I was born… in Little Falls, MN, raised in Great Falls, MT, fell in love with Arizona during college, and have been here ever since.
My favorite thing about Arizona… The hiking. The best way to start a Sunday is to get on Camelback before sunrise. (If you can get parking!)
I’m listening to… A mix of Zach Bryan and Billie Eilish.
My family… is my world. Our kids are at magical ages. We have incredible conversations and genuinely enjoy being together and having adventures as a family.
If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be… Elon Musk. I just read his biography and find him fascinating.
One thing I cannot live without… My daily double shot soy cappuccino.
When I was younger, I wanted to be… A marine biologist. (Like many girls who grew up in the 80s.)
I’m inspired by… People who dare to chase their dreams
The person/people who motivate(s) me is/are… My kids. I work hard to show them that you can do anything you set your mind to. They are also incredibly supportive and will even admit that my job is cool (occasionally).
If I could change anything in the world, it would be… For everyone to be kinder to themselves
The perfect day would be… Any day when I get to spend time with my family, laugh with friends, eat good food, create, and explore.
My first job was… At a sandwich shop. My sister was the manager and got me the job.
My favorite escape… The beach, where I can watch the waves for hours.
My life… Has been one incredible journey. I am excited to see where the next chapter takes me.
I’m currently working on… Currently our team is re-designing Etta at the Scottsdale Quarter along with finishing up a second Copper & Sage location in Goodyear. I am also launching Social Design Supply Co. this fall with my husband, an e-commerce site for boutique restaurant furnishings.
Always… Find the joy in life. I try not to take myself too seriously.
Never… Take no for an answer. My job is 99% solving problems and bringing ideas (that no one else has done) to life. There is always a way.
Favorite Quote… “Whether you think you can, or think you can’t – you’re right.” — Henry Ford
Biggest Dream… To watch my children become the most incredible versions of themselves.
My Pet Peeve(s)… Judgement of any kind. You have no idea what someone is currently going through or has been through. Be kind out there folks. We are all doing our best.
Bio-on yourself/company:
Nicole Herman, the Founder and Principal Designer of Social Design Studio, has over 15 years of experience in the hospitality design industry. She has partnered with local boutique restaurateurs, award-winning chefs, and five-star luxury hotel clients, as well as national and international brands. Nicole’s visionary approach and dedication to excellence guide the creative direction of each project, emphasizing authentic storytelling and the best possible business outcomes for her clients. Her leadership and passion have established her as a respected figure in the industry.
Social Design Studio, founded by Nicole Herman and based in Scottsdale, Arizona, specializes in boutique hospitality spaces. The studio has brought to life captivating local concepts, including Fansē , Oliver’s, Bourbon and Bones, Mon Cheri, Barley & Smoke, Copper & Sage, and The Eleanor. With a focus on creating unique environments for restaurants, nightclubs, hotels, spas, and salons, Social Design Studio seamlessly integrates interior and graphic design, ensuring each project is a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality. Their holistic approach leaves lasting impressions, elevating the guest experience and bringing each client’s vision to life.
