For nearly two decades, Aguilar Design Studio has brought elegance, craftsmanship, and warmth to homes across the Carolinas and beyond. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Laura and Aaron Aguilar, the Charlotte-based design and build firm has earned national recognition — including features in Forbes and Better Homes & Gardens — for creating classically inspired homes that are as livable as they are luxurious.
Originally from Southern California, the Aguilars relocated to Charlotte over 10 years ago. “We came to visit some family and loved the area, cost of living, and the change of seasons,” says Laura. “So we made the big move across the country!” They’ve lived here ever since, offering a one-stop shop for custom homes, renovations, and full-service interior design through Aguilar Design Studio.
Aaron, a licensed contractor with a background working alongside architects and engineers, leads the construction side of the business. Laura, the principal designer, brings a deep love of timeless interiors and a passion for transforming houses into beloved family homes. From architectural plans and project management to selecting bespoke furnishings, they oversee every step of the process.
Most of Aguilar Design Studio’s clients reach out when their homes no longer serve their needs. “People often just are tired of their house not ‘working’ for how they live,” she explains. “Our job is to help them reimagine their space. Plus, we help them make smart decisions about where to invest to get the most long-term value.”
A Perfected Process at Aguilar Design Studio
No matter the project, Aguilar Design Studio shepherds clients through five key phases: concepting, design, procurement / construction, final walkthrough, and turnkey installation. This approach is not just a workflow — it’s the foundation of their success. “We’ve perfected our systems over the years,” says Laura. “And we’ve learned not to stray from them.” Part of upholding that commitment means ensuring at the project outset that clients understand and embrace the timeline. “We’re not the right fit for someone who wants a rushed job; beauty takes time,” explains Laura. Specifically, for renovations, the design phase can take 12 to 16-plus weeks. Construction, on the other hand, spans anywhere from four months to over a year. The time needed depends on the project’s scale and complexity.
A signature aesthetic defines their work: warm, timeless, and inviting. “We design spaces to be lived in and enjoyed,” says Laura. “We blend functionality and beauty to reflect each client’s lifestyle.” Whether it’s a kitchen renovation, a whole-home build, or a guesthouse addition, every project centers on a thoughtful, detailed design process. Another pillar of their studio is thoughtful sourcing. In short, from eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems to sourcing art from local artisans to partnering with vendors to create custom products, sustainability and high quality craftsmanship are central to the studio’s ethos.
Partners in Life and Business
Above all, the couple attributes their success to a strong partnership — both professionally and personally. “Our biggest accomplishment isn’t a single project,” says Laura. “It’s the fact that we can be happily married and happy business partners every single day.”
In summary, for clients seeking a trusted team to design, build, and fully furnish a home that will stand the test of time, Aguilar Design Studio delivers with style and conviction. “We fully understand that a home is often the biggest investment our clients will ever make,” says Laura. “And we don’t take that responsibility lightly.”
