Since 2004, designers Todd Nickey and Amy Kehoe of Nickey Kehoe, Inc., have been going full bore on myriad projects. Not only do they manage a firm that’s focused on residential and commercial projects, they run a shop (both brick-and-morter and online) filled with cool, vintage finds. Looking for Finn Juhl side tables? You’ll find them. How about a Victorian umbrella stand? You’ll find that, too. As well, the duo has found time to produce private label products, custom furnishings, and a lighting collection with Urban Electric. Theirs is an eclectic, versatile look that feels absolutely authentic—which is undoubtedly why the phone keeps ringing. In between calls, we caught up with Todd for our monthly Q&A.

How would you describe your aesthetic? Our aesthetic is described in a few different ways but we rely strongly on our clients’ goals to both create and edit projects. Artful, modern simplicity; modern vintage elegance; sophisticated bohemia; earthy traditional… those are just a few of the phrases we use to describe our vibe.

How did you get started in the business? Amy and I are old friends from New York and we always respected each other’s taste and enjoyed one another’s company. We started working together when we moved (separately) to Los Angeles.

From where or what sources do you derive creative inspiration? We’re inspired by many different things: We love traveling and finding beautiful places in the world; we love nature and find a great many elements referential; and art and fashion are always a go-to when we start a new project. 

If you could reside on a Hollywood film set from any era, what would it be and why? For me, it’s Villa Necchi Campiglio, the setting for I Am Love. It’s a beautiful, artful and stunning mansion plopped right in the middle of Milan. It’s Hollywood by way of Italy—a perfect version of urban living.

What takes a kitchen or bath from ordinary to extraordinary? Using a mix of materials and colors. We’re doing a kitchen right now and using mahogany countertops. All the walls are tiled and it feels really beautiful and simple, like a modern-day scullery.