From Economics to Interior Design: The Unconventional Path
Roberta Minichiello’s professional journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. With over 15 years of experience in real estate and design, she has carved a niche for herself in the competitive markets of the United Arab Emirates. Currently serving as a Senior Private Client Advisor at Christie’s International Real Estate UAE, Roberta combines her entrepreneurial spirit and creative flair to offer bespoke solutions to high-end clients.
Her academic foundation is rooted in a degree in Economics and Banking from the University of Siena. This program provided her with a comprehensive understanding of banking intermediation, insurance management, and financial markets. The curriculum emphasized both macroeconomic and microeconomic aspects of financial economics, equipping Roberta with the analytical skills essential for the dynamic world of real estate.

Bridging Finance and Aesthetics
While her studies in economics laid the groundwork for her analytical abilities, Roberta’s passion for aesthetics led her to pursue a diploma in Interior Design from the National Design Academy. This institution is renowned for its excellence in online British design education, offering diplomas, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in interior design. The program allowed Roberta to explore her creative side, focusing on design principles, space planning, and the intricacies of creating harmonious interiors.
This unique combination of financial acumen and design expertise became the cornerstone of her career. Recognizing a gap in the market for professionals who could seamlessly integrate the financial and aesthetic aspects of real estate, Roberta founded Ro.mi. Design. Her interior design studio quickly gained a reputation for delivering customized and innovative solutions for both residential and commercial projects.
Making Waves in Dubai’s Real Estate Scene
Dubai’s real estate market is known for its rapid growth and luxury developments. Roberta’s tenure as a Real Estate Agent at Tanami Properties saw her navigating this dynamic landscape with finesse. Her deep understanding of the UAE market, combined with her commitment to client satisfaction, led to record-breaking sales and a slew of referrals.
In her current role at Christie’s International Real Estate UAE, Roberta continues to make significant strides. She leverages her dual expertise to advise high-net-worth clients, ensuring that their investments are not only financially sound but also align with their aesthetic preferences. Her approach goes beyond transactions; she aims to create value and beauty for her clients and the communities she serves.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Growth
Roberta’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Transitioning from economics to interior design and then merging the two fields required resilience and continuous learning. She faced the task of establishing credibility in a new domain, building a client base from scratch, and staying updated with the ever-evolving trends in both industries.
However, Roberta’s unwavering commitment to her vision propelled her forward. She embraced each challenge as an opportunity to grow, continually expanding her skill set and adapting to the demands of her diverse clientele. Her story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring professionals who seek to blend multiple passions into a cohesive career.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Roberta remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of real estate and design. She envisions a future where spaces are not only functional and beautiful but also sustainable and reflective of the individuals who inhabit them. Her mission is to continue creating environments that resonate with her clients’ identities while contributing positively to the broader community.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond her professional endeavors, Roberta is passionate about mentoring aspiring designers and real estate professionals. She believes in the power of sharing knowledge and experiences to uplift others. Through workshops, speaking engagements, and one-on-one mentorship, she aims to inspire the next generation to pursue their passions relentlessly and to view challenges as stepping stones to success.
Conclusion
Roberta Minichiello’s journey is a compelling narrative of blending diverse fields, overcoming challenges, and staying true to one’s passions. Her story underscores the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and the courage to forge one’s path. As she continues to make waves in the realms of real estate and design, Roberta remains a beacon of inspiration for many, exemplifying that with dedication and vision, one can indeed craft a fulfilling and impactful career. Do connect on Linkedin.
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