I’ve spent the last six months planning, renovating, stocking and opening my newest venture—a homegoods and lifestyle boutique and home design studio, right on the waterfront in Portland, Maine’s historic Old Port. Meet my newest home: Nicola’s Home.
I’ve longed to return to retail since I closed my first store, Nicola’s, on Yarmouth, Maine’s Main Street in 2000. After four successful years focusing on women’s apparel and home accents, I shuttered the store to launch my home design business—and as the postcard I sent to my customers explained, to have more time to share with my beloved daughter, Maeve. When Maeve was young, I needed more flexible hours, work that made space for my family. My home design business was inspired by my own desire to make the perfect home for Maeve—and it succeeded beyond my wildest dreams. Now that she’s older and so much more independent, a store feels right again. It is wonderful to come full circle.
Come visit. I want to show you how I’ve transformed this historic space with custom cabinetry, architectural salvage, industrial accents and more. I want you to browse my hand-selected collection of furnishings, décor, lighting, textiles, clothing and gifts. Be sure to look for the blue tags—these are Reservatory items, the unique, one-of-a-kind antique or handmade finds I save for my very best clients. Now? You have the chance to bring home a statement piece of your own! And chances are I’ll be on the floor with my best advice on how to showcase and care for these very special things.
If you are considering a home or interior design or renovation project, stroll to the back of the shop to my brand-new design studio. I realized this winter that my home design business has outgrown my home office, and I’ve treated me and my clients to an expanded, beautifully lit, well stocked workspace. We can spread out your plans, sort through swatches and create the space of your dreams together. Now that the shop doors are open and we’re humming with summer foot traffic, I’m eager to dive back in to building, designing and furnishing something new.
Nicola’s Home store is located at 215 Commercial Street, Portland, Maine. We’re open Monday through Saturday from 10am to 6pm, on Sundays from 11am to 5pm or by appointment. For all inquiries—boutique, design or otherwise—please call (207) 899-3218.
