On today's show I sat down with Abbey and A.J. Robertson, co-founders of aaNovo, a custom residential design-build firm in Indianapolis.
A.J. shares his path from tech startup Yikes (phone-based hotel access) to self-taught finish carpentry after renovating family property, landing early work at 17, and eventually leaving tech in 2016 to start aaNovo with his wife Abbey.
They discuss their first flip near 34th and Carrollton, why they moved away from flipping toward full renovations and preservation work with Indiana Landmarks/IHPC, and how they emphasize quality, building science, and "healthy buildings."
Abbey explains a design process using 3D renderings and balancing client wants with expert guidance, plus budget-friendly upgrades like lighting and paint. They also highlight a home-a-rama show home in Chatham Hills featuring a central courtyard and tree, and share their favorite Indy architecture areas.
If you like this episode and want to hear more Get IN. episodes where I interview Hoosiers making a difference, visit getindiana.com/podcast.
You are going to learn about: - A.J. Robertson's Journey from Tech to Carpentry - aaNovo's Keys of Success - Using 3D Renders and AI as Tools
Thank you to our partners: Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance
Check out these great clips from the show: 01:38 Guest Introduction: Abbey and A.J. Robertson, aaNovo 02:31 A.J. Early Hustles 04:06 Learning Finish Carpentry 06:48 First Big Break 08:47 From Coworkers to Marriage 14:31 Yikes Tech Startup Story 16:57 Leaving Tech for Real Estate 21:42 First Flip Reality Check 24:28 Historic Renovations Leap 28:40 Indiana Landmarks Side Quest 32:52 Scaling Up Quality Design 34:56 Old Homes vs. New Builds 38:07 Healthy Building Basics 39:53 Old Homes And Insulation 41:09 Planning Healthy Homes 42:14 Design Process With Clients 46:47 3D Renders And AI 48:51 Budget First Reality Check 51:28 Signature Home-a-rama Project 56:24 Indy Architecture Favorites 01:00:18 Why Indiana Feels Home 01:01:10 Rapid Fire Design Tips 01:07:11 Hidden Gems And Hoosiers
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