About WildeWoods Design
A design background built in the real world
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I’m Hilary Gilman, owner and designer behind WildeWoods Design. I didn’t come to design through a traditional path—and that has shaped the way I work meaningfully.
Before WildeWoods, I spent ten years in corporate product marketing and management, where I learned how to think strategically, manage complex projects, and work cross-functionally to get things done. From bringing new products to market, to understanding consumer behavior, to designing e-commerce shopping experiences and in-store retail displays, my learnings permanently influenced my mindset and business-savvy.
I also bought a run-down coffee shop; renovating and rebranding it, which I ran for 4 years. From there I pivoted to real estate investing, hands-on renovations, vacation rentals, and eventually WildeWoods Design.
Along the way, I’ve renovated and furnished my own properties, launched and operated successful short-term rentals, served as general contractor on my own home build, worked alongside builders and trades, and taken on projects ranging from interior renovations to large-scale garden projects.
Warm, natural, and never too precious
My design style tends to lean warm, layered and connected to its surroundings—natural materials, comfortable furnishings, interesting texture, color, vintage pieces and a little imperfection.
I’m drawn to spaces that feel collected rather than overly styled, and polished enough to feel special without becoming fussy or untouchable.
Creative thinking + practical follow-through
I love the creative side of design—which always starts by seeing what's not there. From breathing life into cold, empty spaces -- to reimagining tired, dated properties -- to cleverly optimizing square footage -- I always thrive on the challenge to layer so many factors together to create something cohesive and amazing.
But I’m equally interested in whether it actually works. How will people move through the space? Will it hold up to regular use? Where can we save money where it makes sense, but splurge where it'll have the biggest impact? Is it worth waiting for that backordered expensive tile, or will the on-hand & on-sale option complete the room without compromise? What details will matter six months or five years from now?
Although I may not be your gal for suburban kitchens, elaborate presentations, or technical/architectural projects -- I'm the right fit to navigate the hundreds of decisions, tiniest of details, and creative problem-solving necessary to get the real space right.
A solo practice by design
WildeWoods Design is just me (Hilary); I work directly with clients, contractors and suppliers, helping develop the vision and then carrying it through the many decisions that turn a concept into a finished space. I personally handle most details & logistics; helping clients transform properties while working within budgets, timelines, and other limitations.
Since my approach is practical, hands-on and highly involved; I intentionally take on a limited number of projects each year so that I can give each the time and focus needed. I've found there are invaluable synergies and efficiencies in being the one to develop a design concept and execute on it, rather than hand off tasks or pieces where things start slipping through the cracks.
My clients are busy, live out-of-state, or simply want a partner who they can work with at a higher-strategic level, then hand-off the hundreds of individual decisions and logistical details to. You'll always work directly with me from the first conversation, through the finished project itself.
Outside of Work
I live in Western Maine with my husband and our 2 dogs on 16 acres of wooded land. Originally from Massachusetts; we bought land and built our home here in 2023, and got married in our front yard in 2024.
When I'm not working on a client's project, I'm usually working on something around my own property -- from gardening, to house projects, to building trails. I also love reading, baking, hunting for 'finds' at antique shops & flea markets, or spending time in nature -- either hiking, or out on the water.