Vision Meets Execution: Building a Remodel Brand with Nick Balding
In the latest episode of The Refining Exchange, Nick Balding, co-founder of Balding Design Build, shares the intentional journey behind building a successful remodeling brand with a focus on custom homes, tile, and flooring. What started as a small family business has transformed into a well-defined design-build firm through thoughtful strategy and clear vision. Nick explains how their recent rebrand—from Balding Brothers to Balding Design Build—was more than just a name change; it represented their commitment to delivering a fully integrated design and construction experience. This shift has allowed them to position themselves as a trusted expert in remodeling, with a strong emphasis on tile, flooring, and whole-home renovations.
Throughout the conversation, Nick highlights the importance of assembling the right team. He shares how finding the right people for specific roles has been essential for their growth, particularly in specialty areas like custom tile installations and premium flooring projects. By aligning team members with their unique strengths, Balding Design Build has streamlined its in-house process, combining design, budgeting, and project management under one roof. This integrated approach not only improves communication but also results in a more transparent and efficient experience for clients, especially those seeking detailed tile and flooring work as part of larger projects.
Nick also offers insight into working alongside his wife, Catherine, who plays a key operational role in the business. Together, they’ve found success by balancing visionary leadership with detail-driven execution, especially in managing intricate jobs such as kitchen remodels, bathroom overhauls, and custom flooring designs. Their partnership underscores the power of intentional planning, teamwork, and a shared commitment to craftsmanship. For anyone in the tile, flooring, or remodeling industry, this episode serves as a refreshing reminder that success comes through vision, collaboration, and a willingness to evolve.
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Zellige & Stone: A Shower with Soul
The glossy, organic texture of zellige tiles creates a lively, light-catching surface, while the grounded tone of stone adds balance and structure.
One of the standout combinations we've recently featured in the showroom is a shower design that pairs handcrafted zellige tile with natural stone accents—a look brought to life by designer Kasey Smith and builder Corey Thompson. The glossy, organic texture of zellige tiles creates a lively, light-catching surface, while the grounded tone of stone adds balance and structure.
In this project, subtle color variation in the zellige provides depth, while stone is used thoughtfully in accent features like the shower bench and niche. The mix feels both timeless and modern—perfect for those looking to blend artisanal texture with a natural, understated palette.
Zellige and stone each have their own character, and together they elevate even the simplest shower layout. We love seeing this thoughtful craftsmanship come together, and we’re proud to showcase this collaboration in our showroom as inspiration for others planning their own unique spaces.
Coastal Creations
The real showstopper, though, is the blue herringbone backsplash—its bold, ocean-inspired tones add a playful yet refined touch to the space. Paired with brushed brass fixtures and white shaker cabinets, the kitchen feels warm, welcoming, and effortlessly Southern, where tradition meets a touch of modern coastal charm.
Welcome to our latest blog feature, where we step inside a stunning custom home crafted by Schmidt Custom Builders and thoughtfully designed by Ginger Interiors. This exceptional residence blends masterful craftsmanship with refined, livable elegance, showcasing the seamless collaboration between builder and designer. From architectural details to curated finishes, every element reflects a commitment to quality, comfort, and timeless style. Join us as we explore the beauty and inspiration behind this one-of-a-kind home.
Tucked in the heart of the Southern Low Country, this charming kitchen blends timeless elegance with coastal flair. At its center, a sleek porcelain countertop offers both beauty and durability, its smooth, marble-like finish reflecting soft natural light that filters through white-framed windows. The real showstopper, though, is the blue herringbone backsplash—its bold, ocean-inspired tones add a playful yet refined touch to the space. Paired with brushed brass fixtures and white shaker cabinets, the kitchen feels warm, welcoming, and effortlessly Southern, where tradition meets a touch of modern coastal charm.
The master shower exudes spa-like luxury with its expansive large-format tile panels that perfectly mimic the elegant veining of natural marble. These seamless tiles create a clean, uninterrupted look that enhances the sense of space and sophistication. Soft gray veining flows across a crisp white backdrop, lending a timeless, high-end feel without the maintenance of real stone. Framed with sleek glass and paired with matte black or polished chrome fixtures, the shower becomes a serene retreat—refined, modern, and effortlessly serene.
The guest bathroom makes a bold yet inviting statement with its stunning blue variation hexagon tile wall, instantly drawing the eye and adding a playful pop of personality. Each hex tile offers subtle shifts in shade—from deep navy to soft sky blue—creating a dynamic, mosaic-like effect that feels both artistic and refreshing. Set against crisp white walls and complemented by modern fixtures in brushed nickel or matte black, the space strikes a perfect balance between charm and contemporary style, making every guest feel like they’ve stepped into a boutique retreat.