Apparently, when we said the next issue of Luxury Home Magazine would be our Winter issue, the Lowcountry took it as a challenge and gave us the first snow in eight years!
Charleston turned into a winter wonderland with snow angels on King Street, sleds hitched to cars gliding down streets, and the usual joggers on the Ravenel Bridge swapped for ambitious snowboarding attempts. Even the city’s iconic wrought iron gates became portals to snowy blankets covering perfectly manicured lawns, proving that this city knows how to make the most of a rare snowfall.
Looking ahead into the new year, the luxury home market is infused with a sense of positivity and innovation. I find myself excited about the endless exploration of refined living that inspires us to dream bigger. Maybe it’s that I am a hopeless romantic – or perhaps it’s because I’m a Gamecock.
To me, they are one in the same.For now, I’m going to continue to celebrate those three points.
I invite you to view this issue as your gateway to inspiration, showcasing the beauty, sophistication, and creativity that define the Lowcountry’s most extraordinary homes.
A little aside: If you’re reading this note, and your gorgeous luxury home is on the market, but isn’t featured within the pages of this beautiful publication- please understand that your exclusion was obviously an oversight. Rest assured; this can be corrected. This is your opportunity to speak with your favorite realtor about how to reach the top 1%.
As the luxury market continues to evolve, we find timeless elegance blending with modern priorities. Economic recovery is driving renewed confidence, while younger generations are reshaping real estate with their passion for sustainability and smart design. Green technologies and bespoke craftsmanship now stand alongside architectural grandeur as hallmarks of today’s luxury homes. Anything and everything is possible, and each day invites unlimited possibilities.
Inside the pages of this February/March issue, you will find a carefully curated selection of exceptional properties that represent the pinnacle of Charleston’s real estate, the businesses that stand beside them, and an editorial that explains the upcoming trends to combine all of the above.
Each page is an opportunity to live your dreams.
I am excited as Charleston begins another vibrant year, starting with two marquee events that celebrate the city’s unparalleled lifestyle. The first is SEWE (Southeastern Wildlife Exposition), which invites us to connect with fine art and wildlife. It’s a cherished tradition marking the start of Charleston’s tourism season. Following closely in March, the Charleston Wine + Food Festival takes center stage- uniting culinary masters, wine connoisseurs, and food lovers in an unforgettable showcase of flavor and creativity.
These events embody the charm and sophistication that make the Lowcountry so remarkable. Whether you’re searching for your next dream home, exploring design possibilities, or simply seeking inspiration for how to live the best possible life of luxury- this issue is a celebration of what’s possible when beauty, innovation, and luxury converge.
Here’s to 2025-a year of elegance, optimism, and living exquisitely.
It was roughly 5:30 p.m. when the stars finally aligned between me and Nilou Henderson, the Charlotte-based entrepreneur mastermind. I caught her on the drive home, along with her fiery, fierce, and sweet 15-year-old daughter, Roya.
It must be said, anyone who has crossed paths with our beautiful, born-to-be-a-CEO matriarch would be as surprised as I was after reading the impressive display of altruism, ambition, and achievements—all accomplished at an unprecedented speed in her young life to date. Those are the first words that popped into my head when trying to express my gratitude for the privilege of speaking to this amazing mother, wife, friend, philanthropist, visionary, and trailblazer.
By the time we hung up the phone, I was smiling ear-to-ear and excited that I had just made a new friend.
How often is it that you empathically know, after just one fifteen-minute phone call, that the voice on the other end is unquestionably humble and genuinely endearing? I’ll go ahead and answer for the collective- it’s not that often. It was 100% clear that Nilou Henderson had an innate gift of making EVERYONE she meets feel at home.
It’s no wonder her newest venture, Stage of Designs, is taking the Queen City by storm.
Q&A
It is noticeably clear (and awe-inspiring) that family plays a significant role in your life. How have your daughters, Roya, Zara, and Yasi, and your husband, Gerald, influenced your journey as a businessperson and entrepreneur?
My daughters, Roya (15), Zara (8), and Yasi (2), along with my husband, Gerald, are the anchors of everything I do. Each of them pushes me to pursue my vision and values in a deeper way. Gerald’s own journey in the NBA taught me resilience and adaptability- two qualities that define my approach as a businessperson. My daughters remind me every day to strive for balance, to pursue dreams, and to create a legacy they will be proud of. It is their laughter, strength, and pure belief in me that inspire me to push boundaries.
Your experiences as a mother, wife, and entrepreneur are deeply intertwined. How do these roles inspire your creative process when designing spaces that reflect individuality?
My roles as a mother, wife, and entrepreneur interweave constantly, influencing my creativity in profound ways. Being in the business of designing spaces, I understand that each space is as unique as each family. I aim to create environments that reflect individuality because that’s what I want for my own family- a home where each person feels seen and valued. That philosophy translates directly into my design process, where I work to capture the essence of every client’s lifestyle.
Your passion for architecture and design has been a constant throughout your journey. What early experiences led you to pursue this path?
My passion for architecture and design was sparked early, growing up in a family where craftsmanship and attention to detail were deeply valued. Watching spaces transform always captivated me. As an immigrant, I learned early on that a home isn’t just a building—it’s a place where memories are made, cultures are shared, and futures are built. This perspective instilled a love for creating spaces that truly feel like a sanctuary.
Your success in luxury real estate laid the groundwork for Stage of Designs. How did your experiences with Henderson Ventures prepare you to offer a complete design solution?
Real estate at Henderson Ventures laid a solid foundation for me. Understanding the intricacies of the luxury market, especially with our sports and entertainment clients, has shaped how I think about design and functionality. My clients needed more than a beautiful space—they needed a space that enhanced their lifestyle and met specific needs. That understanding led to the vision behind Stage of Designs, providing a truly comprehensive design solution.
Working closely with sports and entertainment families, you’ve developed a keen understanding of creating homes that balance privacy, style, and comfort. How has that perspective shaped the services offered by Stage of Designs?
Working with sports and entertainment families taught me the importance of balancing privacy with luxury and comfort. This unique perspective is central to Stage of Designs. We tailor our services to prioritize discretion and efficiency while still delivering on the highest level of style. Our clients trust us to create spaces that feel like an escape—a true retreat from the public eye.
Relocating frequently during Gerald’s NBA career gave you a unique perspective on the importance of a home. How does that personal experience influence the way you design spaces for your clients?
Moving frequently during Gerald’s NBA career was challenging but gave me a unique insight into the emotional side of home design. A home is more than a place; it’s a foundation, especially when you’re always on the go. That experience allows me to empathize with my clients’ needs and design spaces that help them truly feel settled and at peace, no matter where they are.
Stage of Designs has been described as a one-stop shop for interior design, staging, and custom builds. What inspired you to create a firm that offers such comprehensive luxury services?
I was inspired to launch Stage of Designs as a one-stop shop because I saw a gap in the market for a comprehensive luxury design service. Clients often felt overwhelmed with managing multiple vendors for design, staging, and construction. I wanted to simplify this process, ensuring they could come to us for everything and leave with a space that’s truly transformed.
Your tagline might be, “Where vision meets impeccable design.” How do you and your team bring a client’s unique aspirations to life?
At Stage of Designs, also known as SOD Interiors, we believe in listening deeply to our clients. Each project begins with a visioning process where we explore not only their aesthetic preferences but also how they want to feel in the space. We take that insight and translate it into impeccable design, delivering spaces that feel uniquely tailored to each client.
With services ranging from bespoke custom builds to furniture rentals, how do you ensure that every step of the design journey feels seamless and luxurious for your clients?
We strive to make every interaction luxurious, from the first consultation to the final reveal. It is about anticipating needs and exceeding expectations, so clients feel pampered every step of the way. Whether it is custom build or luxury staging, we manage each detail seamlessly so clients can focus on simply enjoying the experience.
What role does personalization play in your projects? How do you ensure that every space reflects the unique tastes and lifestyles of your clients?
Personalization is at the heart of everything we do. No two clients are the same, so no two spaces should look the same. We take time to understand their lifestyle, preferences, and dreams to craft a space that reflects who they are.
Stage of Designs has redefined the luxury design experience for Charlotte. Can you share a project that highlights the firm’s ability to transform a space?
One project that stands out was a full redesign for a sports family seeking a home that felt private yet luxurious. We transformed the space with soundproofing elements, added subtle opulence in the finishes, and created an outdoor oasis that felt like a true escape. This project embodied the best of Stage of Designs, blending beauty, function, and privacy.
How does your background in real estate inform your approach to home staging, and how does it differ from traditional staging methods?
My real estate background informs our staging in a way that focuses on lifestyle appeal rather than just aesthetics. We stage homes with a keen eye for what buyers are seeking emotionally, creating spaces that invite them to imagine their lives within. It’s more about the lifestyle than simply dressing up a room.
Your bio emphasizes craftsmanship and attention to detail. How do these values shape the culture and work ethic at Stage of Designs?
Craftsmanship and attention to detail are central to our ethos S.O.D. We hold ourselves to the highest standards because we understand that luxury clients expect nothing less. These values are woven into our work culture, pushing our team to go above and beyond.
Beyond Stage of Designs, you have created Ziba Luxury Salon & Spa. How does this business reflect your dedication to creating elegant, personalized experiences?
Ziba Luxury Salon & Spa reflects my commitment to creating spaces that feel elegant, welcoming, and pampering. The salon was an opportunity to expand my vision for luxury beyond the home and provide clients with an environment where they feel valued and rejuvenated.
You are competing in Dancing with the Stars Charlotte, supporting causes like breast cancer and teen mental health. What does this experience mean to you, and how does it connect to your advocacy for community and women’s empowerment?
Competing in Dancing with the Stars Charlotte is a passion project that connects me to causes I deeply care about, like breast cancer awareness and teen mental health. It’s a chance to raise awareness, support important initiatives, and inspire others to contribute to their communities. It aligns with my commitment to empowering women and promoting mental health.
As an Iranian American entrepreneur, how do your heritage and personal journey influence the creativity and vision you bring to your businesses?
As an Iranian American, my heritage brings a unique perspective and richness to my work. The colors, textures, and history of my culture influence my creativity, pushing me to create designs that are both elegant and meaningful. I believe in honoring where I come from while shaping spaces that feel both global and timeless.
Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for Stage of Designs? Are there new services, collaborations, or expansions in the works?
I envision expanding Stage of Designs Interiors to include more custom luxury services, for example, venturing into unique architectural designs. We are exploring and preparing our very own luxury spec builds- and considering new opportunities that expand into new markets, while keeping our high-touch service at the core.
How do you see the firm evolving to remain a leader in the luxury interior design space, both in Charlotte and on a larger scale?
We are committed to evolving with the luxury design landscape by staying connected with trends, investing in technology, and, most importantly, listening to our clients’ evolving needs. Our goal is to not only dominate Charlotte but also become a sought-after name for luxury design on a broader scale.
What excites you most about the future of luxury design, and how is Stage of Designs staying ahead of the curve?
I’m thrilled by the possibilities in luxury design to blend innovation with deeply personalized, curated spaces that genuinely reflect the lifestyle and aspirations of each.
As we close this glimpse into Nilou’s vibrant world of everything that defines luxury, taste, and style, it is clear that Charlotte will embrace Stage of Designs with the fervor of seeking a Hermès Birkin bag.
Behind every perfectly placed velvet cushion and meticulously selected marble countertop lies Nilou’s extraordinary vision, her passion for design, a genuine love for life- and her beautiful family. Her journey from the fast-paced world of real estate to crafting dream sanctuaries proves one undeniable truth: she delivers. Every. Single. Time.
Nilou’s story is one of grace and grit, where luxury meets soul. Her work is not about simply creating beautiful spaces; it is about crafting environments that resonate with meaning and emotion. Her journey encourages us all to chase our passions, aim higher, and laugh a little when the unexpected happens- because, let’s face it, when construction throws a curveball, a designer’s best accessory is a radiant smile- of which NO ONE can argue once you see hers.
So, here’s to the art of living boldly, the beauty of thoughtful design, and the belief that the most luxurious homes are made even better when filled with laughter, love, and intention. Because, in the end, true luxury isn’t just about living well—it’s about feeling well, dreaming big, and embracing every exquisite moment with style and a little humor.
If I had a glass of champagne in my hand, I would raise it to toast my new friend and say, “Stage of Designs, welcome to Charlotte. We are so glad you are here to stay. Cheers.”
Article originally written by Katherine S. Von Haden, in the Dec/Jan 2025 issue of Luxury Home Magazine.
In the world of luxury homes, innovation isn’t just an upgrade; it’s a way of life. Picture this: you stroll into your marble-floored, art-deco haven after a long day. Instead of flicking switches and fumbling with remotes, you murmur, “I’m home,” and your opulent residence takes it from there. Suddenly, the lights dim to your preferred “unwind” setting, your playlist gently hums in the background, and the blinds glide closed as if auditioning for their role in a futuristic ballet. This isn’t the plot of a sci-fi movie; it’s the reality of smart luxury living, and it’s coming to a home near you sooner than you think- if it hasn’t arrived in yours already.
The Butler is Now Digital
Gone are the days when the ultimate sign of luxury was a live-in butler named Chadwick, who’d bring you a warm towel and just the right amount of sass. Today, that role has been usurped by AI-driven smart assistants with names like Alexa, Siri, and Google Home. Except these domestic servants don’t sigh judgmentally when asked to dim the lights for the third time that evening. In the ultra-luxury market, the integration of voice-activated systems now extends beyond the living room. With a simple command, homeowners can lock or unlock doors, adjust the thermostat, or start their jacuzzi, all while comfortably ensconced in your Hermès slippers and cashmere robe.
Temperature Wars, Settled
One hallmark of living with other humans is the ongoing battle over the thermostat setting. “Smart” means no more thermostat feuds or passive-aggressive sticky notes. With zoned climate control, each area of a luxury home can maintain different temperatures, creating a truce that even Goldilocks herself can appreciate. The system learns your preferences and schedules, so if your partner likes to feel like they’re in the Arctic while you prefer a subtropical vibe, everyone’s happy-without lifting a finger.
Luxury homes have long been fortresses of security, but smart technology has taken it up a notch, making them feel like the set of a high-budget spy movie. Facial recognition at the front gate? Standard. Motion sensors that can tell the difference between a prowling intruder and Chauncy, your champion standard poodle? Of course. And let’s not forget about 360-degree cameras with real-time feeds that can be accessed from anywhere in the world. Want to check if your Amazon delivery has arrived while on a yacht in Capri? There’s an app for that, too.
Kitchens That Know More Than You Do
In a luxury smart home, even the kitchen can outwit its owner. Smart refrigerators remind you when the organic strawberries you bought two weeks ago are about to hit their expiration date (even though you planned on eating healthier). Ovens can be preheated from your phone, ensuring that your gourmet dinner is cooked to perfection by the time you’re done enjoying your martini in the hot tub. Thank you to companies, such as De’Longhi Magnifica, that learn your 7 a.m. espresso habit, making the morning rush feellike a scene from a five-star resort, not a Monday.
The Future is Now- And It’s Gloriously Extra
The rise in smart technology has turned luxury homes into a seamless blend of elegance and cutting-edge innovation. Every moment, from a light switch to an elaborate security check, is designed to be as intuitive as it is impressive. Whether it’s waking up to windows that reveal a pre-programmed sunrise or ending the day with automated blackout blinds that set the stage for a perfect night’s sleep, smart homes ensure that luxury living doesn’t just keep up with the future-it welcomes it with open, judgement-free, sensor-activated arms.
So, if you’re wondering what the new gold standard is in luxury living, it’s not just a coveted address with water views, marble countertops and grand foyers anymore-it’s a home that knows you as well as you know yourself.
It’s official: I’m an adult! Just went through the home-buying process for the first time. Well, not officially, as we close on June 23, but the paperwork is all done and approved. I thought I would run through the process for other first time home buyers, and give some tips for how to make it painless- and perhaps add some things you didn’t consider before. Both our mortgage broker and realtor have mentioned that I should teach a class on “how-to for the no-clue”, so I shall blog instead. I have had friends who have cried through the process, and others where it was seamless. Well, here is my experience.
We will get to decorating, redesigning, moving and Pinterest another time.
Tips from a first-time home buyer:
When purchasing properties like Cherry Grove homes for sale in North Myrtle Beach, make sure you have a team that you trust- and is well seasoned.You can appreciate that your friend’s daughter is trying to build up her client list, as she just got her real estate license, but I’m sorry, she simply will not do for what you need. You need experience, savvy and balls. You are buying a home post 2008 subprime mortgage disaster, so the lenders are going to dig DEEP into your life before giving you a dime. Do you really want a 12 year old helping you with this? That’s what I thought. You need to have a team that has been around the block a few times. My realtor and mortgage specialist are AMAZING at their craft. If you are buying a home in NH/ME- TRUST ME and use these guys. If you decide to move to a new home that will suit your family’s needs, you should look into the local real estate market. Also, before moving, you may first need to sell your current home. Looking to sell Utah land? We make the process fast and straightforward, ensuring you receive the best value for your property.
Make a folder on your desktop to put all forms, PDFs and other information that is requested and sent to you. Save everything here. You will find that being organized and taking one little step to do this will make it MUCH easier, should a file get misplaced and you need to resend.
When they send you forms to sign- print, sign and scan IMMEDIATELY. This way it is done. You won’t forget – and no one will be sitting around waiting for you. I often find that if a part of my job depends on getting information from someone else, I get very unhappy if I have to wait for it. Get it done.
he who hesitates is lost. -english proverb
If you know there are other offers on the house, make your offer at least $500 over asking price- and keep in mind that the closing date your realtor sets might win the vote, not necessarily the price tag. Just ask Jessie.
Make sure you have access to your original employment offer letter or contract. Make a digital copy, put it in the folder. They will ask for this information/proof.
Ask your payroll department if there is an online portal to your pay stubs and to verify employment. Save the last two months from when you plan on closing.
Pay down your credit cards to under 20%.
Don’t buy anything big! Wait until you close to purchase that new furniture, car, TV, etc. I have a horrible shopping habit, so this one was hard.
Be prepared that the appraisal of the house might be less than the asking price. The appraiser doesn’t take into account the market (low inventory). This person is only looking at the value of the home and the selling price of the homes in the area. If the appraisal comes in LOWER than the asking price- then remember that the bank will only give you a loan based on the appraised value. Which either means you have to come up with more money out-of-pocket at closing or you need to negotiate the asking price after you are already under contract- or both. Don’t be afraid to negotiate!
If your parents are going to give you money for the down payment, make sure it is in your account 60 days prior to when the underwriters will see your account, unless they are willing to write a “gift” letter and show the underwriter a copy of their bank account. It’s super invasive, but they want to make sure you’re an honest person and not laundering money.
Be prepared to explain your tax write-offs, and to have to write letters explaining every decision you made on your tax forms. They want to understand how much money you are actually spending and how this affects your income. Got excited you were able to write off a lot last year, so you got a big return check? Well, this is where that will bite you in the ass. I even had to explain how many miles I drive daily. Thankfully, this move brings me closer to work and they liked that fact. phew.
Get better-than-you-need insurance by a real insurance company. I upgraded to Liberty Mutual– and combined all our auto and home on one rate. It’s more efficient, and while in college and post-college-ignorant-twenty-something years it was cool to skimp on monthly car insurance, this is the real world and you want to make sure the big boys are behind you.Sorry Flo. It’s not you, it’s me. Well, it might be you a little.
Make sure you get a good home inspection and keep the digital receipt. This will come in handy, as the underwriter will request it. Be prepared that the home inspection will take a really, really long time. Additionally, considering the expertise of a honolulu plumber for a thorough inspection of the plumbing system could save you from potential headaches down the line.
Just because you were “pre-approved” for the home loan doesn’t mean you will actually get the loan. There are still many hoops to jump through before the underwriter will give you any dough. It’s almost like those “pre-approved” credit card mailings you got in the mail in your twenties, when your credit was shit from poor college decisions. You might have the direct mail in your hand, but honey, there is no way you are getting that card. Sowwy.
When starting to plan your move THROW SHIT AWAY. I have boxes of shit I have moved with me since college (I graduated in 2001), I am going to guess I don’t really need that stuff anymore. Just toss it. Purge! I even threw away 8 pairs of shoes. Gulp. I have not really begun packing yet, but I will soon and the less I have to pack/carry/unpack- the better. For organizing your space before or after the move, consider working with a Closet Company in Eatontown NJ like Bella Systems to create a system that fits your new space perfectly.
Side note: who is this “underwriter” I keep mentioning and what does that word mean? To the lay people (IE people not in the real estate industry) it’s basically the person who will be giving you the loan. Their opinion matters MOST. This is the determining factor on whether or not you get your home. The realtor and the mortgage specialist work for you- well, the underwriter works for the bank. I shall be sending cookies.
My last bit of advice would be this: Don’t forget to THANK the people who are helping you purchase this home! You have no idea how much work they are doing on your behalf. Most of the time, people are unappreciative and thankless. Well, just be sure to remind them from time to time how much their hard work has meant to you. Be sincere, damnit! We have got emails past 10pm and before 7am from both our guys- that’s working. We are plan on using food and libations to show our true thanks, but you can do as you choose. I’m sure a note card works just fine- or perhaps hyperlinked contact information in a blog post?
As long as you stay organized, act immediately and follow directions- it’s really easier than people let on. Either that, or my A-type personality was actually useful for once.That’s about all I can think of for now. We close on June 23rd on the new house and cannot wait! Pictures to come…
click photo for music by none other than the legendary motley crew.
