Hidden Gems: Meet Ana Prieto of AP designs

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Prieto

Hi Ana, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My passion for interior design comes as no surprise. As a child, I watched my parents regularly embark on home projects—from building additions to redecorating spaces and painting walls to reflect different phases of our lives. These early experiences sparked my lifelong interest in design, architecture, and real estate. By the time I graduated high school in Texas, I was determined to pursue this passion. At 18, I earned my real estate license while studying interior design on the side. My career quickly took off, and after three years, my real estate firm transferred me to Nashville to help establish their new office.
Though real estate was fulfilling, I knew my true goal was to design full-time. In 2023, I made the leap, stepping away from my brokerage and deactivating my license to focus exclusively on design. I began helping past clients re-decorate their homes, and made it a point to showcase my projects on social media. The response was overwhelming, with many people eager to learn more about my services. However, many of those inquiries came from out of state.
Determined to help clients near and far, I spent time mastering 3D rendering software, allowing me to offer virtual design services. By early 2024, I had successfully managed both local projects in Nashville and virtual ones nationwide. I branded my services as “AP Designs,” and began collaborating with photographers, web developers, and digital marketers to take my business to the next level.
Enhancing people’s spaces—and by extension, their lives—has been a dream come true. Though the growth has been gradual, it has been incredibly rewarding. I look forward to where this journey will take me in the years to come.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I think the biggest struggle I’ve faced, which many people in creative industries experience, is believing in yourself—trusting that what you create is worthwhile. Being in your early 20s, trying to pursue your dream and actively putting yourself out there, is not as easy or fun as it looks. Showcasing your work means exposing yourself to criticism and judgment. While this can be true in many careers or life experiences, there’s something particularly vulnerable about attaching your name to your creations and building your own identity and brand.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
AP Designs, which offers both virtual and in-person interior design services, is dedicated to enhancing spaces and lifestyles. While in-person services provide more hands-on assistance, both options include realistic 3D renderings with precise measurements and layouts of the desired room. Additionally, a mood board is created to curate furniture styles that align with the client’s personality, followed by the rendering process. Clients are then provided with a comprehensive link sheet, making it easy to purchase all the decor and accessories used to transform their space. I firmly believe that by improving the environments we inhabit, we can positively impact our mental well-being.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
Human connection is my greatest source of happiness. I believe we all have a responsibility to support one another and use our unique skills to enhance the lives of others.

Growing up, my parents were always involved in food drives, donating to charities, and constantly hosting gatherings. They created a welcoming environment where people could unwind and find comfort after a long day.

For me, helping others through what I love is truly fulfilling.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/anaaprieto
• Instagram: @ap.designs / @ana.prieto