led by passion, guided by experience. welcome to the cedar house collective.

“Designing spaces that feel like home — thoughtful, grounded, and beautifully lived in.”

A smiling blonde woman in a black sleeveless top and black pants sitting on a cream-colored couch with brown, black, and gray pillows.

Founder of the cedar house collective

Meet Nicki Kuhar

After more than a decade co-hosting short-term rentals and building a thriving cleaning company on the Outer Banks, what began as a side hustle has evolved into a bold, experience-first approach to property management.

I’m originally from Maryland, but the East Coast has always been my home — from Sarasota to Charlotte to the Jersey Shore, and now the OBX, where I’ve lived for the past 10 years and built both my business and my family.

As a mom, a creator, and a woman with an unapologetic love for design, music, and good food — my mission is to elevate the vacation rental experience. I believe great homes should feel like a retreat: equal parts stylish, soul-filled, and serene. My approach fuses luxury, hospitality, and spa-like simplicity to deliver turnkey experiences that stand out in a saturated market.

With a lifelong passion for homes, interiors, and the little details that turn a space into a sanctuary, I manage each property with intention and a modern edge. Whether you’re a homeowner or a guest — expect something different here.

This isn’t just management. It’s a mindset.
We’re about more than just pretty spaces.

Design Philosophy

Intentionality

Every detail is chosen with purpose.

Function meets feel

Beautiful spaces still need to live well.

Rooted in place

Our designs nod to the coast without being cliché.
Two women sitting on a beige couch in a modern living room, smiling and looking at each other, with dark wall and warm lighting in the background.

Rooted on the outer banks. real about real estate.

Keil Gray Samson

Born and raised on the Outer Banks, I’m no stranger to the hustle. My family ran Queen Anne’s Revenge in Wanchese, so hard work is in my bones — and so is a deep love for this coast and its people.

After graduating from ECU with a degree in Communications and English, I shifted gears in 2015 when my youngest daughter started Kindergarten and officially got licensed in real estate. I haven’t looked back since.

I know every nook, cranny, and quiet cut-through of the OBX. I see the potential in properties others overlook, and I love helping families find the home — or the investment — that just feels right.

Outside of work, I’m a full-time mom to the best girls in the world and spend every minute I can with them. Life may have thrown me into this real estate journey alongside my “crazy-ass” friend (you know who you are)… but honestly? Wouldn’t want it any other way.

Curious about working together?

Whether you're just beginning to envision your next space or need a partner to help you bring an existing idea to life, we're here to guide the process with clarity, warmth, and creativity.
We intentionally take on a select number of projects to ensure each client receives our full attention and a tailored approach. From full-home designs to short-term rental refreshes, no two projects look the same — because no two stories are either.
If you're interested in collaborating, reach out below and let’s start a conversation. We'd love to learn more about your vision.

Start a project→