Nicole Kalafut
In this Women in Construction Week edition of CO Pod, Nicole Kalafut, President of PMC Commercial Interiors in Raleigh, shares her insights on the power of design, leadership, and partnership in creating exceptional commercial spaces.
With more than 25 years of experience spanning sales, contract negotiation, and workplace solutions, and recognition as the 2024 CORE Awards Service Provider of the Year, Nicole offers a thoughtful look at how collaboration between owners, vendors, and designers can shape project success. She also discusses how women leaders are influencing the next era of commercial interiors across the Southeast and beyond.
Episode Highlights
How a background in business development and market growth led to an unexpected but perfectly aligned career in contract furniture.
Why approaching design through business drivers like retention, attraction, and ROI, creates more meaningful and strategic spaces.
The shift from brand-first selling to experience-driven environments that prioritize employee connection and culture.
How deeply understanding client objectives, budgets, and team needs lays the foundation for intentional, high-impact spaces.
Using the five senses to reduce friction points and create immersive environments that feel less like offices and more like experiences.
How proactive planning, clear communication, and alignment with A&D firms and GCs minimize hiccups in the built environment.
A leadership philosophy rooted in empathy, development, and understanding each team member’s unique motivations.
Practical mindset shifts for overcoming self-doubt through authenticity, purpose discovery, and surrounding yourself with growth-minded communities.
A meaningful nonprofit project creating a healing space for grieving children - proof that thoughtful design can truly change lives.
