Creative Talks

The best of Creative Talks

Today on Creative Talks, we’re joined by a visionary entrepreneur and strategic connector in the luxury marketing world. Our guest is Lynette Janac, founder of Luxury Guide and Luxury Network — platforms redefining how luxury brands, designers, and industry leaders connect through strategic marketing, collaboration, and meaningful relationships. With more than 25 years of experience in sales, marketing, and business development, Lynette has built an innovative ecosystem that combines luxury branding, business networking, curated experiences, and her research-first approach known as Designer Intelligence Marketing™. What makes her perspective so interesting is her belief that true success is not built through vanity metrics or mass visibility, but through intentional relationships, qualified audiences, and authentic collaboration. Today we’re talking about luxury branding, entrepreneurship, smarter marketing, and why relationships continue to be the real currency of business.

Today’s guest is someone whose work beautifully captures what modern luxury truly means—homes that are sophisticated, deeply personal, and designed not only to impress, but to elevate the way people live every single day. Erik R. Galiana is the founder and principal of Interiors by Erik Galiana, a luxury interior design firm with projects spanning New York, South Florida, and international destinations. With a background rooted in luxury residential development and high-end real estate, Erik brings a perspective that goes beyond aesthetics—understanding how intentional interiors can enhance lifestyle, maximize property value, and create homes that feel timeless. Today we’re talking about the new definition of luxury, the connection between design and well-being, how travel influences creativity, and why the most beautiful homes are often the ones designed with intention.

Today we’re diving into a part of our industry that truly defines whether great design actually becomes reality. I’m joined by Ezgi Fitos, founder of Designology—a Miami-based, award-winning design-build studio operating at the intersection of design and construction. Her work focuses on high-end residential projects, and she also collaborates closely with architects and interior designers as a general contractor—bringing complex visions to life with precision and care. What I love about her approach is the level of intention behind pre-construction and how that really protects the design all the way through execution. So today, we’re talking about what it takes to build great design… and to actually get it right.

Welcome back to Creative Talks. Today we’re sitting down with a designer whose work goes beyond aesthetics and really taps into intention and the spirit of a space. I’m excited to introduce Veronica Barney, founder of Veronica Design Studio, a Miami-based interior designer known for creating spaces that feel warm, beautiful, and deeply personal. With years of experience transforming both residential and commercial environments, Veronica brings a thoughtful approach that blends design, functionality, and emotional connection—making every space truly reflect the people who live in it.

Today, we are very excited to welcome Salim Skaf, founder and CEO of Harmony Studio, a luxury furniture brand that has quickly become a reference in South Florida for contemporary, refined, and highly customizable design. Harmony Studio is known for blending modern elegance with comfort and craftsmanship, offering both ready-to-ship and custom-made furniture pieces tailored to today’s luxury lifestyle. With showrooms across South Florida, the brand has built a strong reputation among homeowners, developers, and interior designers alike. Today on Creative Talks, we’ll be diving into Salim’s journey as a founder, the story behind Harmony Studio, and how design, quality, and personalization come together to support designers in creating elevated, thoughtful experiences for their clients.

I’m honored to have with me Rajni Alex, founder and principal of Rajni Alex Design, a bi‑coastal interior studio with offices in New York and Florida. With over 20 years of experience, Rajni’s work has been featured in Luxe Magazine, House Beautiful, Elle Decor, Traditional Home, and many more. She’s known for weaving global inspirations, bold color palettes, sculptural forms, and layered textures into interiors that feel warm and personal. Her projects include standout work in the 2024 House Beautiful Whole Home showcase and her recent kitchen design for the Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach 2025. Today we’ll dig into Rajni’s journey—from her earliest inspirations to how she juggles creativity, clients, and the press. Rajni, thank you so much for being here.

Today, we’re taking things into the kitchen with a guest from one of the most iconic names in high-end appliances: Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove. Joining me is Ashley Rojas, a passionate Trade Representative for Sub-Zero Group Florida, covering the Miami and Gulf Coast regions. Since joining the company in 2018, she’s been instrumental in building strong partnerships with architects, kitchen designers, and interior designers — driving brand awareness through immersive trainings, chef-led experiences, and showroom events that bring the Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove story to life. Her work blends education, experience, and strategy to deepen product knowledge and foster lasting loyalty across the design community. But beyond her professional expertise, Ashley brings a wonderful personal story — one that bridges her Midwestern roots in Iowa and her Colombian heritage. She’s a marketer at heart, a lover of travel, good wine, and great coffee, and a proud mom to a one-year-old son with another little one on the way. We’ll be talking about the intersection of design, culinary culture, and brand storytelling — and how Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove continue to set the standard for timeless performance and design innovation in the home.

I’m honored to welcome one of the most influential voices in architecture and resilient design — Reinaldo Borges. He is the award-winning Founder and CEO of Borges + Associates, a world-class design and consulting firm based in Miami with offices around the globe. Over his 33-year career, Reinaldo has left his mark on skylines across the U.S. and internationally, with more than 100 completed buildings and a portfolio that spans luxury high-rises, five-star hotels, mixed-use developments, and visionary projects that blend beauty with sustainability. A leader on climate resiliency, he also serves as a key advisor to the City of Miami, guiding how cities can prepare for the future. Joining him today is his wife and partner, Alice Dahbura-Borges, an accomplished architect with more than 20 years of experience in residential and hospitality design. With her expertise in complex high-rise projects and interior design, Alice brings design leadership, technical mastery, and a passion for elevating the details that make projects truly exceptional. Together, they helm Borges + Associates, a world-class architectural and consulting firm headquartered in Miami, with a global presence in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and India. Now celebrating 25 years of excellence, their combined vision and leadership have positioned the firm as a trusted partner for major real estate developments worldwide. I’m so excited for today’s interview, as I truly admire them and have the pleasure of calling them my friends.

Today I’m incredibly excited to bring you a conversation with a true creative visionary. Tatyana Gold is the founder of Prisma Interiors, a design studio known for its bold aesthetics, refined elegance, and a deep commitment to creating spaces that don’t just look beautiful—but feel meaningful. Her work is where art, emotion, and functionality come together. Please welcome to a designer, entrepreneur, and storyteller through space. We’ll be diving into her journey as a founder, what inspires her work, and how she’s built a brand that resonates so deeply in the world of interior design.

Aimee Lopez is the visionary behind IC Designs by Aimee and the Holistic Interior Design Community—a movement that’s redefining how we think about the spaces we live in. She’s also an inspiring educator in the University of Miami’s Interior Design program, where she’s guiding the next generation to look beyond the surface and understand how design shapes our well-being. With her background rooted in both interior design and human wellness, Aimee is passionate about the impact our environments have on our minds, bodies, and spirits. By bringing together neuroscience, psychology, and soulful energy work, she helps clients and fellow designers move beyond aesthetics into spaces that truly heal and support us. Today we’ll explore how she integrates empathy, the 33 senses, and even personality types into her design process—and why she believes the future of design must be more conscious, and deeply human. So whether you’re a designer, a creative, or simply someone craving spaces that feel better—not just look better—this conversation will give you fresh insight into what it really means to live well by design.

Today, I’m joined by Irene Fister, founder of Fister Design and a licensed interior designer with over 20 years of experience across residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors. Irene’s work is a study in balance—blending classical structure with modern and eclectic flair, all while keeping functionality and client experience at the core. Her portfolio includes boutique hotels, luxury residences, and commercial interiors throughout the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean. For those of us in the trade, Irene’s approach to detail, collaboration, and storytelling through design is truly inspiring.

Today we’re diving into the world of plumbing fixtures with one of the most dynamic companies in the industry: House of Fixtures. Joining us are Christian, Owner & CEO, and Jessica, their incredible A&D Specialist, who works closely with architects and designers to turn vision into reality. Together, they bring a sharp eye for detail, deep industry knowledge, and a passion for helping design professionals make confident fixture selections. We’ll be talking trends, technical tips, and tackling some of the most common myths designers run into when working with plumbing fixtures. So get ready to learn, laugh, and maybe even rethink what’s really going on behind your walls!

Today, I’m joined by a very special guest: Laura Madero, a talented interior designer and the owner of The Closet Lab, a company dedicated to crafting custom storage solutions that merge functionality with beautiful design. With her keen eye for detail and expertise in creating personalized, well-organized spaces, Laura has built a brand that transforms the way people experience their homes. In this episode, we’ll dive into her journey as a designer and entrepreneur, explore the world of millwork design, and discuss what it takes to create tailored solutions that truly enhance daily life. Whether you’re a designer, contractor, or simply passionate about smart interiors, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Welcome to a very special episode of Creative Talks—where today, innovation meets impact, and design meets responsibility. We’re exploring a powerful new chapter in architectural recognition: the launch of the RIVA Prize for Excellence in Sustainable Design, a bold initiative by RIVA Spain in partnership with AIA Miami. This prize isn’t just a celebration of beautiful buildings—it’s about rewarding architecture that responds to the climate crisis with creativity, craftsmanship, and care. I’m thrilled to be joined by two inspiring voices. First, Borja Iglesias, CEO of RIVA Spain and co-founder of the RIVA Prize—a visionary who turned a family legacy in wood into a global commitment to quality and sustainability. And second, Claudio Salazar, Principal at RooTSDNA and recipient of the first-ever RIVA Prize, whose award-winning design proves that thoughtful renovation can be both elegant and environmentally radical. Together, we’ll unpack how this prize came to life, what it takes to win it, and why design rooted in sustainability is the future of our cities, our homes, and our planet. Let’s dive in.

In this episode, we're joined by two trailblazing women in Miami architecture. Michelle Lozano, AIA, Project Manager at Kobi Karp Architecture, brings a bold, cross-disciplinary vision shaped by experience in L.A., NYC, and Miami. A Columbia and SCI-Arc alum, she’s also a dedicated mentor and leader with AIA Miami’s Women in Architecture. Sara A. Jimenez, Int’l. Assoc. AIA, Senior Project Manager at Arquitectonica, blends over 20 years of design and construction expertise. Born in Mexico, Sara is known for her collaborative approach, mentoring spirit, and unstoppable energy—both in the studio and as a two-time Ironman finisher. Let’s dive into their journeys, their impact, and the future of architecture in Miami.

In today’s episode, we are excited to feature Studio Palapa, a versatile interior design firm based in Miami, founded by sisters Sophia and Michelle Gomez. Inspired by their Mexican heritage, Sophia and Michelle believe that great design is not just about aesthetics but about creating spaces that evoke emotion and tell a story. Their approach seamlessly blends luxury, serenity, and modernity, with a strong emphasis on authenticity and transparency, ensuring their clients are at the heart of every project. Join us as we dive into their journey, design philosophy, and how they craft environments that are as personal as they are timeless.

Today, we are excited to have Camila Borges Chiang, founder of "Casa Chiang Interiors". Camila grew up in a family of architects and always knew she wanted to design. She originally planned to study interior design but pursued architecture for a stronger foundation. After earning her Bachelor’s from UF, she worked at Max Strang, focusing on high-end residential projects. She earned her Master’s from FIU and joined HKS, designing hotels across North America and beyond. In 2016, she joined her family’s firm, leading interior architecture & design alongside her mom. That’s where she truly honed her passion for interior design and renovations. Now, she runs Casa Chiang Interiors, creating beautiful, functional spaces that tell her clients' stories. Lets´ dive into her journey, insights, and approach to design.

I’m joined by Patricia Salamin, Senior Design Director at the prestigious Hollub Homes, where she has been shaping extraordinary spaces for the past 13 years. Originally from Panama, Patricia holds a degree in Interior Architecture and Design and brings over 20 years of experience, blending her international background and creativity. Her work has been featured in major platforms like Florida Design Magazine and Luxe Interiors, and she’s collaborated with leading brands. Patricia is not only a designer but also a mentor, often supporting students in Panama during Interior Design Week. We’re excited to dive into her inspiring journey, her artistic heart, and what continues to drive her passion in the world of design.

Today, we’re bringing you a special edition recorded live from Anima Domus, a premier destination for contemporary furniture. We’re tackling a topic that’s essential for every interior designer: taxes and resale, because, let’s be honest, understanding the financial side of our business is just as important as the creative side. From collecting resale certificates to navigating tax regulations and staying compliant, managing finances can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re bringing in an expert to answer your most pressing questions and clear up the confusion. I’m thrilled to be joined by Ana Maria Focil, our expert today, who will be guiding us through the ins and outs of tax responsibilities for interior designers. This will be an open and informative Q&A session, where we dive into the real questions that designers like you are asking.