Maria B. Rodriguez shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Maria B. , we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Outside of work, I’ve been finding so much joy in the simple rituals of everyday life. Cooking meals with my family has become one of my favorite ways to slow down, connect, and share love through food. Gardening has also brought me a sense of peace, it’s grounding to watch something grow with care and patience, and it reminds me of the importance of nurturing both spaces and people. Even the smallest moments, like enjoying a quiet morning coffee in a cozy corner of my home, feel incredibly meaningful. Music is another part of my daily life that brings me happiness; it helps me relax, set the tone for my day, and makes even the simplest moments more joyful. For me, these experiences are a reflection of what I believe about design: it’s not only about the big, dramatic transformations but also about creating beauty in the little details that surround us daily. Whether it’s arranging fresh flowers on a table, choosing the perfect texture for a throw blanket, or playing a favorite song while I unwind, these intentional touches bring warmth and comfort to life. Embracing these personal joys outside of work keeps me balanced, inspired, and constantly reminded of why I fell in love with design in the first place—it’s about elevating the everyday and making life feel a little more beautiful.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
“My name is Maria Belen Rodriguez, and I’m the founder of Home Selection Consulting, where I specialize in transforming houses into timeless, elegant, and welcoming homes. With over 15 years of experience in interior design and architectural consulting, I’ve developed a passion for blending classic elements with warmth and functionality. What makes my work unique is that I approach each project with the belief that beauty and comfort can coexist within any budget—I love creating spaces that not only look stunning but also feel deeply personal and livable. One of my favorite projects was taking a small, 1900s home and transforming it into a classic English-style retreat filled with natural materials, crystal and gold details, and vintage touches. I’m currently working on expanding my design consulting to help more families and investors see the true potential of their spaces, whether residential or commercial. For me, design is never just about aesthetics; it’s about telling a story, elevating daily life, and creating a place people are proud to call home.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work was my father. I grew up watching his dedication and how he always put pride into everything he did, no matter how big or small. He taught me that work is not just about effort, but about doing things with heart and integrity. I remember as a child, seeing how he would never give up, even when things were difficult, and that resilience stayed with me. His example gave me the courage to follow my passion for design, to stay disciplined, and to always believe that with patience and love for what you do, you can build something meaningful. Every time I take on a new project, I carry those lessons with me.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me lessons that success never could—it showed me resilience, humility, and the value of patience. When everything feels uncertain or difficult, you learn to persevere in ways that triumphs alone can’t teach. It also taught me empathy, helping me understand others’ struggles and approach my work and relationships with greater care and compassion. Success can be exhilarating, but it’s through challenges and setbacks that you discover your true strength and character.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I protect at all costs is integrity. For me, integrity means being honest, staying true to your word, and doing things with care even when no one is watching. In my personal life and in my work, it’s the foundation for building trust, respect, and long-lasting relationships. Design is about creating spaces where people feel at home, and I believe that process should be rooted in transparency, authenticity, and genuine passion. No matter the project, big or small, integrity is the value I will never compromise.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope the story people tell about me is that I lived with passion, kindness, and purpose. That I used my creativity to bring beauty into the world, not just through design but in the way I treated people—with warmth, honesty, and care. I want to be remembered as someone who helped others see the potential in their spaces and in themselves, who made life feel a little brighter and more meaningful. More than anything, I hope my legacy is that I created not only beautiful homes, but also lasting memories, love, and inspiration for my family and those around me.
Contact Info:
- Website: www. homeselectionconsulting
- Instagram: @homeselectionconsulting
- Facebook: Home selection consulting
Image Credits
MI Creative Studio
