About Us
Hilary Gilman is the free-spirited owner-designer at WildeWoods Design. Hilary didn’t come up through a traditional design path—before launching WildeWoods Design, she spent a decade in corporate product marketing and management, where she learned how to think strategically, manage complex projects, and understand what actually drives results.
At 26, she left that world to build something of her own—purchasing, renovating, and rebranding a run-down café into a successful business. She later sold her coffee shop, and began to pursue real estate—buying, renovating, and designing her own properties, including her flagship The WildeWoods Cabin.
That hands-on experience is what shaped how she approaches design projects; specializing in homes and rentals that are meant to be lived in by real families and guests. Hilary's style leans casual, cozy, and rooted in natural materials—often incorporating vintage and antique pieces for added character.
In addition to WildeWoods Design, Hilary is an active Airbnb host; splitting her professional time between clients' design projects and managing her own rentals. As someone who benefits from variety in her days, this combination is a great fit for her personality.
On the personal level, Hilary is a homebody who loves gardening, baking, reading, home improvement projects, and anything crafty. She also seeks out quiet time in nature; exploring hiking trails with her dogs, cruising a lake on a paddleboard, or lounging at the ocean. Hilary's vacations often center around national parks, and she's somewhat of a regular at Acadia National Park.
Nick Gilman owns his own business, Gilman Driveway & Land Services (a skid steer services business), and is an unofficial team member at WildeWoods Design; helping out on furniture moving/installation days and whereever needed. Nick has worked in construction for over 15 years, with experience ranging from residential remodeling, to helping build concrete bridges & buildings, to site work around new construction sites.
Nick is also an avid fisherman who loves spending his free time out on his boat or kayak. His other passions include American history and antiques, wildlife & nature conservation, and bassett hounds... and he also enjoys following football, hockey, and racing.
Nick and Hilary are both nature & animal lovers; spending much of their free time out in the woods, on the water, or stationed in our sunroom overlooking our back woods during winter months... birdwatching. We love to explore Maine and New Hampshire; in particular finding the best off-the-beaten path local restaurants & breweries, fishing holes, views, & flea markets.
In 2023 we bought 16 acres of land in western Maine and built a home on it where we live with our 2 dogs -- Penny (mix) and Bell (basset hound). In 2024 we got married in our front yard.
Through WildeWoods, we enjoy taking on challenging & creative projects and thrive on the variety of work that each day brings.
Watch this interview between Hilary and a local realtor to learn more about Hilary's journey to owning WildeWoods Design, her design philosophy, and some other fun facts!