Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Martha Rosales of Detroit

We recently had the chance to connect with Martha Rosales and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Martha, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Yes, definitely, being able to start Nuvo.org has been one of the most fulfilling and proud moments for me. This nonprofit will empower single moms in poverty through skilled trades, by providing access to training, job opportunities, and a path to financial independence. Our mission extends beyond training by fostering resilience and community, we create lasting change for future generations.
Just check if it has a natural version

Another proud moment this year has been working on a project that feels especially close to my heart, as my oldest daughter Paulette, an artist and ceramic sculptor, is deeply involved in the design, creation, and implementation of this vision. It’s been incredible to see how her artistic perspective blends with our design philosophy, giving life to something that goes far beyond aesthetics. This project represents a fusion of art, nature, and purpose, and I can’t wait to share more about it soon.

A project that invites nature back into our daily lives. Rooted in the belief that our surroundings can heal, inspire, and restore us, this new concept brings the outdoors indoors in ways that nurture wellness, balance, and inner peace.
What makes this initiative even more special is its purpose, to benefit workspaces, schools, community centers, senior living homes, and similar environments, transforming the way we experience everyday spaces. I can’t share all the details yet, but I can promise this: it’s something that will not only enhance how we live and work, but also reconnect us with the healing essence of nature in ways we’ve never experienced before!

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Martha D. Rosales, and I’m the founder of Nuvo Studio and Nuvo.org. I started my company in March 2022. a widow, a single mother with no income, no savings, and no idea how I would provide for my children. Life didn’t stop for my heartbreak, but that moment became the turning point that awakened my strength.

With nothing but faith, resilience, and determination, I founded Nuvo, a company built from love, purpose, and a desire to create a better future for my family.

Today, Nuvo designs and builds beautiful woodwork and meaningful spaces, but beyond that, it represents hope and empowerment. I know what it feels like to start from zero, to choose between food or gas to chase the next opportunity, and to hold back tears and hold on to faith when everything seems uncertain. That’s why I’m deeply committed to using my story to inspire and uplift other moms who are rebuilding their lives, just as I did.

At Nuvo Studio, our core focus is on crafting premium custom cabinetry, countertops, and bespoke furniture, complemented by our interior design and renovation services.

What makes Nuvo special is our company is based in honesty, integrity and quality. Also how we merge craftsmanship, design, and functionality to create spaces that feel harmonious, timeless, and deeply personal.

And through Nuvo.org, my purpose is to empower single mothers to rebuilding their lives, by providing a path to entering the trades, helping them find confidence, purpose, and independence, support and community.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My parents! They taught me how important it is to be a responsible person in your work. My mom taught me that one of the most important things in life is to be honest and do the right thing, even when no one is watching. And to do things right from the very beginning, otherwise, it’s better not to do them at all. That’s something I’ve carried with me since I was little.

My dad taught me that, as an entrepreneur, money will never be lacking at home, and that only you can set limits on what you decide to earn. He learned this from his mother. Both of them have always been very hardworking, responsible, and dedicated people. My parents always taught me that when you decide to do something, you give it your best, with honesty, pride, and intention.

At Nuvo, that philosophy became our foundation. Quality isn’t just a goal; it’s who we are. It shows in the way we design, the materials we choose, the service we give, and the respect we have for every client’s home. For me, every project is a reflection of our values, of doing things with heart, with integrity, and with the commitment to leave something beautiful and lasting behind.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
At the beginning of 2022, when I received a shut-off notice for the electric and gas bill, and I didn’t have the money to pay it, and it was winter, it was a real wake-up call. In that moment, I decided I would stop letting my pain hold me back and instead use it as power to achieve my goals.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes! 100%. I don’t believe in hiding behind a facade. Life doesn’t always go as planned, and yes, I cry at home when I need to. But after that, I stand up, lift my head high, and face the world with strength and determination. I want people to see that being vulnerable is human, but resilience, courage, and authenticity are what define you. That’s the real me, someone who embraces her struggles, learns from them, and keeps moving forward with hope and purpose.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing? 
Honestly, I try not to live with regrets. I’d rather take a chance, even if it feels scary, than look back and wish I had tried. Life is too short to hold yourself back out of fear. Every risk I take, every new path I explore, teaches me something, and even when it doesn’t go as planned, I grow stronger, wiser, and more resilient. I want to live fully, embrace opportunities, and make sure that when I look back, I can smile knowing I gave my best and followed my heart.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Nuvostudiodetroit.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nuvostudiorenovation?igsh=MWZtdHlwc2tiZnYyNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martha-rosales-69697b24b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NuvoStudio.Renovation?
• Yelp: https://m.yelp.com/biz/nuvo-studio-renovation-detroit

Image Credits
Pictures by Martha Rosales, Paparazzi313 and Brandon