Rachel Simpson, Senior Interior Designer, Revive Design and Renovation Few homeowners begin a renovation expecting to exceed their budget. Yet many remodeling projects experience what professionals call budget creep. Instead of one dramatic expense, the total cost gradually rises through a series of small decisions, upgrades, and overlooked details. Because these changes often feel minor…
Rachel Simpson, Senior Interior Designer, Revive Design and Renovation For many homeowners across Tampa Bay, the question eventually comes up: Should we remodel our current home or move somewhere new? At first glance, moving can feel like the simpler solution. A new home promises a fresh start, updated finishes, and potentially more space. But when…
Nicole Rodriguez, Director of Cabinet Design, Revive Design and Renovation Cabinetry is one of the few decisions in a kitchen remodel that influences nearly everything else. It shapes the layout, determines how storage works, affects appliance placement, and sets the visual tone for the entire space. As Director of Cabinet Design at Revive Design and…
Melanie Carter, Senior Interior Designer, Revive Design and Renovation You finally decide it is time to move forward with a major home remodel. You invite two contractors to walk through your space, share your inspiration photos, and talk through what you want to change. A few days later the proposals arrive. Contractor A estimates the…
Melanie Carter, Senior Interior Designer, Revive Design and Renovation Everyone loves a good deal. When you are planning a major home renovation in Tampa or Orlando, it is natural to look for ways to control the budget. Maybe it means choosing a more affordable tile. Maybe it means keeping the original sliding glass doors a…
Sarah Turner, Senior Interior Designer, Revive Design and Renovation When homeowners begin planning a remodel, they often assume the biggest expense will be the cabinets. Or the countertops. Or the professional range they have been thinking about for months. But after working through real remodeling projects, a different pattern becomes clear. The most expensive part…
Lessons From Real ProjectsBy Sarah Turner, Senior Designer at Revive Design and Renovation Home remodels often begin with excitement. Pulling inspiration photos, saving ideas, and imagining what a space could become. But after working through real projects with real clients and very real constraints, one thing becomes clear quickly: remodeling is far less about choosing…
(No One Warns You About This) Rachel Simpson, Senior Interior Designer, Revive Design and Renovation HGTV makes home remodels look glamorous. Walls come down in tidy montages, designers stride through dust-free spaces, and everyone somehow looks relaxed while holding a cup of coffee. What those shows don’t show is the unfiltered reality of living through…
By Nicole Rodriguez, Director of Cabinet Design Revive Design and Renovation Pinterest is one of the best places to start when planning a home renovation. It helps homeowners visualize styles, discover finishes they love, and put language to ideas they have been carrying around for years. But there is an important distinction designers see every…
Rachel Simpson, Senior Interior Designer, Revive Design and Renovation As a residential interior designer with over 15 years of experience working throughout the Tampa Bay area and Central Florida, I’ve seen how small design decisions can make or break a kitchen renovation. Time and again, the same issues surface in projects that fall short of…
Melanie Carter, Senior Interior Designer, Revive Design and Renovation Even for the most organized homeowners, the transition from dreaming about a remodel to actually starting one is where the most expensive mistakes tend to happen. In 2026, being a savvy homeowner means looking beyond beautiful 3D renderings and focusing on the details that truly determine…
Melanie Carter, Senior Interior Designer, Revive Design and Renovation There’s a very specific kind of disappointment that shows up months after a renovation is finished. You’re standing in your brand-new bathroom or kitchen, admiring the finishes, and suddenly it hits you. You missed an opportunity. When we ask homeowners, “If you could redo this remodel,…
Scheduling Coordinator
Born in Virginia and raised in Florida, Megan Laughlin brings curiosity and laser-sharp organization to her role as Scheduling Coordinator at Revive Design and Renovation. Inspired by her father’s work in construction, Megan found herself drawn to the industry and eager to learn the ins and outs of home renovation.
What she enjoys most is supporting her colleagues and keeping each day running smoothly. A fan of the Bucs and the Lightning, Megan also has a love for beach vacations and holistic health.
Marketing Manager
With roots in New Jersey and a passion for storytelling, Amanda Wolff brings creativity, strategy, and heart to her role as Marketing Manager at Revive Design and Renovation. A University of Tampa graduate (B.A. and M.A.), Amanda blends her background in design with her love of marketing to craft campaigns that reflect the personality and quality of every project, and she thrives in Revive’s upbeat, purpose-driven culture.
Amanda hopes every client feels inspired and empowered as they move through their unique renovation journey. A Yankees fan and avid cruiser, Amanda also advocates for animal welfare and is a proud dog mom to a sweet, rescued pup.
Procurement and Accounting Operations Manager
A New York native with a passion for family, Carly Vaccaro brings her enthusiasm for creating and seeing design ideas come to life to her role as Procurement and Accounting Operations Manager at Revive Design and Renovation. With a degree from the University of Tampa, Carly’s educational background complements her keen eye for detail and organizational skills.
Carly’s love for the beach and appreciation for tropical aesthetics are reflected in her favorite travel destination: anywhere near the ocean with palm trees and a gentle breeze! A fan of the New York Jets, Carly enjoys spending her leisure time soaking up the sun, exploring the outdoors with her beloved dog, and cherishing moments with loved ones
Assistant Project Manager
Born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Rafael Lantigua’s journey brought him to the shores of California, where he honed his skills at Long Beach Community College before finding his true calling—home remodeling. At Revive Design and Renovation, Rafael thrives on transforming client visions into tangible realities, meticulously overseeing projects and ensuring every detail aligns with the homeowners’ dreams.
Rafael is a family man and people person at heart, appreciating the opportunity to interact with a team of professionals and learn something new, every day on the job. When he’s not overseeing one-of-a-kind remodels, Rafael’s passion for soccer takes center stage, with FC Barcelona igniting his competitive spirit. This same drive and dedication translate seamlessly into his work, ensuring every project is a winning goal for the Revive team and their clients.
Assistant Project Manager
Miami native Khaleb Fernandez brings a deep commitment to helping others and years of construction experience to his role as Assistant Project Manager at Revive Design and Renovation. A graduate of the May Conservatory of the Arts, Khaleb’s diverse background and creative spirit seamlessly blend with his love for transforming spaces and exceeding customer expectations.
For Khaleb, the home remodeling industry provides endless opportunities to improve lives and make a tangible difference. Seeing the joy of clients as their dream projects come to life is his ultimate reward, fueling his commitment to excellence for every project. Recently relocated to the Tampa area, Khaleb is eager to explore the area while rooting on his hometown teams—the Miami Heat and Miami Dolphins. When he’s not orchestrating stunning renovations, you’ll find him at home spending time with his family, jamming on his electric bass, shooting hoops on the basketball court, or discovering hidden gems in his new hometown.
Project Manager
With more than 25 years of remodeling experience, Bill Wesela brings deep industry knowledge and a commitment to craftsmanship to his role as Project Manager at Revive. Raised in Milwaukee, Bill developed a strong work ethic early on and has built his career around doing the job right and earning the trust of every client. He thrives on the transformation process and finds genuine satisfaction in helping turn renovation goals into reality.
Off the job site, Bill enjoys spending time with family, cheering on the Packers and Badgers, and relaxing on cruises. He’s proud to bring both skill and heart to his work.
Project Manager
Born in Cuba and now a trusted Project Manager at Revive Design and Renovation, Armando Oliva is driven by a love for creating spaces that bring people joy. He finds purpose in helping clients fall back in love with their homes—whether that means modernizing a kitchen or completely reimagining a living space.
For Armando, the most meaningful part of the job is seeing the transformation not just in the home, but in the homeowner’s happiness. His goal is to make every step of the process fully collaborative and stress-free.
Project Manager
A Buckeye at heart with a passion for turning design concepts into tangible realities, Dan Frost brings his 40 years of construction expertise and unwavering dedication to Revive Design and Renovation. Hailing from Columbus, Ohio, Dan’s journey into home remodeling began as a laborer for a custom builder, where he discovered a love for building and a knack for carpentry. His deep understanding of how homes are constructed seamlessly translated into a successful career in remodeling, where he thrives on problem-solving and delivering exceptional results.
Dan finds immense satisfaction in witnessing the joy of clients as they step into their newly transformed kitchens and bathrooms, their dreams realized. For Dan, the most rewarding aspect of the industry is the transformative power of remodeling, breathing new life into spaces and creating havens for homeowners to enjoy. When he’s not orchestrating stunning renovations, you can find Dan cheering on his beloved Ohio State Buckeyes or planning his next adventure to the idyllic beaches of the Caribbean—a well-deserved escape for a man who dedicates himself to crafting dream spaces for others.
Project Manager
VP of Production
For Jorge Estiu, a Tampa native with Cuban roots, the home remodeling industry isn’t just about construction – it’s about making a tangible difference in people’s lives. This passion, ignited during a childhood immersed in construction and renovations, has propelled Jorge to the role of VP of Operations at Revive Design and Renovation. Jorge thrives on exceeding customer expectations, finding immense satisfaction in the smiles and gratitude of clients whose homes have been transformed. His commitment to excellence and unwavering focus on improving lives is evident in every project he oversees.
Beyond the realm of renovations, Jorge’s heart beats for baseball, with a special affinity for the New York Yankees. Whether he’s strategizing on the field or orchestrating a seamless home remodel, Jorge brings his infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to everything he does.
Vice President of Production
Victor Pena, a visionary with an eye for transformation, brings his decades of construction expertise and passion for creating the “wow” factor to Revive Design and Renovation. Born in Cali, Colombia, and raised in the bustling city of Chicago, Victor completed a business degree at Northeast Illinois University before moving to sunny Florida, where he fell in love with the warmth of the climate and the people. With extensive experience in both residential and commercial remodeling, Victor always strives to exceed expectations and bring his clients’ dreams to life. At Revive, he thrives on the collaborative spirit of teamwork, recognizing that a successful project is the result of many hands working in unison.
When he’s not orchestrating stunning renovations, Victor cherishes quality time with his loved ones and enjoys exploring new destinations around the world. His unique blend of experience, passion, and cultural background makes him an invaluable asset to the Revive team and a trusted partner for homeowners seeking exceptional results.
Vice President of Operations
Originally from Kansas City, KS, and raised in Clearwater, FL, Brett Wiard brings two decades of experience in real estate investment to his role as Vice President of Operations at Revive. A San Diego State University graduate, Brett’s deep knowledge of the SFR and iBuyer space makes him uniquely equipped to lead large-scale renovation strategies. He’s passionate about building a national presence through professionalism and high-quality workmanship.
Brett’s also a proud member of the Pinellas Realtor Organization and a big fan of Tampa Bay sports, especially the Bucs, Rays, and Lightning. His favorite getaways include the British Virgin Islands, and he’s deeply committed to causes like All Children’s Hospital and community food programs.
Cabinet Designer
Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Jose Rivera blends technical precision with bold creativity in his role as Cabinet Designer at Revive Design and Renovation. With more than a decade of experience designing custom kitchens and baths from New York to Tampa, Jose is known for his thoughtful approach and dedication to craftsmanship.
Studying architecture back in Puerto Rico gave Jose a strong foundation, but it’s his love for collaboration and real-world problem solving that fuels his passion. A coffee connoisseur and Miami Heat fan, he takes inspiration from travel and the small, unique design touches in everyday life.
Cabinet Designer
Manny Bermudez, a Cabinet Designer with over seven years of experience in home remodeling and design, is passionate about transforming houses into havens. Born in Havana, Cuba, and educated at Hillsborough Community College, Manny brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Revive team. His strong belief in the power of teamwork and collaboration is evident in his dedication to creating a supportive and innovative work environment.
Manny’s favorite aspect of the industry is witnessing the joy and excitement of homeowners as they see their dream spaces come to life. A fan of the Buccaneers, Manny enjoys spending his time exploring his favorite travel destination, the Caribbean, with family and friends.
Interior Designer
Melanie Carter has been immersed in the world of design practically since birth—her earliest recollection involves racing through the framing of her parents’ first home at the age of three, eagerly naming the rooms as they took shape. With nearly 20 years of experience in the industry, she has honed her ability to bring a client’s vision to life, particularly during the construction phase of a remodel. Her favorite moment is when the transformation becomes tangible.
Born and raised in New Brunswick, Canada, Melanie moved to Wisconsin for college and is a proud member of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID). A dedicated hockey enthusiast, she passionately roots for the Tampa Bay Lightning. When she isn’t designing or cheering on her team, Melanie enjoys cruising absolutely anywhere—destination optional. She and her husband are also devoted supporters of the ACHIEVE organization in Plant City, which empowers seasonal workers and their families to learn English together.
Designer
With a Studio Art degree from the University of South Florida and a Residential Interior Design certification from the New York Institute of Art & Design, Harry Lee infuses a vibrant and fabulous artistic flair into Revive Design and Renovation. Hailing from the sunny shores of St. Petersburg, FL, his passion for design blossoms from a desire to metamorphose interiors into personal sanctuaries that echo each client’s distinctive taste.
Harry places collaboration at the forefront — he believes that a united team effort conjures the most harmonious results. Beyond the creative realm, he thrives on health and fitness, drawing inspiration from an active lifestyle to invigorate his artistry. Italy holds a special place in his heart, topping his travel aspirations; he has already ventured there thrice and is convinced it’s a love affair, as there’s truly nowhere else quite like it.
Senior Interior Designer
Award-winning designer Rachel Simpson has a “superpower”—the ability to transform spaces into functional works of art. A St. Petersburg native and graduate of The Art Institute of Tampa, Rachel has honed her skills over a decade, specializing in high-end residential projects in the Tampa and Orlando area. Her passion for home decor, furniture, and interior design ignited at a young age, driving her to create captivating spaces that blend aesthetics with practicality.
Rachel’s expertise shines in space planning, where she masterfully optimizes layouts to maximize functionality and flow. She finds immense joy in witnessing her clients’ reactions as their dream homes come to life, starting as sketches and culminating in stunning realities. An active mom outside of work, Rachel’s creativity, dedication, and eye for detail make her an indispensable member of the Revive team, dedicated to exceeding client expectations with every project.
Senior Design Consultant
A Tampa native with deep roots in Florida’s historic architecture scene, Joe O’Neal brings passion, precision, and decades of family influence to his role as Senior Design Consultant. He grew up surrounded by architects, builders, and remodelers—including his grandmother, who famously led the restoration of Ybor City and Hyde Park in the ’80s.
Joe sees home design as both art and impact, and he thrives on the before-and-after moments that showcase his team’s talent. A proud University of Tampa graduate, he finds joy in fishing, diving, and golfing—really anywhere that feels like a good time to be outside.
Senior Design Consultant
A transplant from Valparaiso, Indiana, Matt brings his entrepreneurial spirit and problem-solving prowess to Revive Design and Renovation as a Senior Sales Consultant. A graduate of Indiana University with a degree in business management, Matt’s journey led him to found and operate three successful businesses before discovering his passion for home remodeling. Matt thrives on the dynamic nature of the home remodeling industry, finding fulfillment in the intricate logistics of guiding projects from inception to completion. His 8& years of experience in business startups have equipped him with the skills to navigate challenges and deliver exceptional results.
Beyond his professional achievements, Matt’s heart beats for animal rescue, fitness, and socializing with friends. A die-hard Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan, he channels his team spirit into his work, always striving for victory. When he’s not orchestrating dream renovations, you might find him exploring snowy mountaintops or hitting the gym, with his loyal canine companion by his side.
Vice President of Sales / Pre-Renovation Manager
With ties to both Philadelphia and Detroit, Greg Finkelstein brings over a decade of experience and a people-first approach to his role as Vice President of Sales / Pre-Renovation Manager at Revive Design and Renovation. A graduate of Eastern Michigan University, Greg is passionate about helping clients realize their vision for a dream home, down to the finest detail.
Greg believes in delivering a five-star experience from start to finish, with transparent communication and beautiful results. A diehard fan of Michigan football and all things Detroit sports, he finds inspiration in the remodeling industry and the lifelong relationships built throughout his career.
Senior Vice President
A pharmacist turned entrepreneur, Austin Morrison traded the world of healthcare for the vibrant landscape of home remodeling, joining forces with Revive Design and Renovation as Senior Vice President of Operations. Hailing from Jackson, Mississippi, and armed with a doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Mississippi, Austin brings a unique perspective and a passion for problem-solving to his role. At Revive, Austin thrives on the challenge of turning clients’ visions into reality, utilizing his operational expertise honed during his time as a lead clinical pharmacy specialist at Moffitt Cancer Center. His dedication to serving others, a core value instilled during his healthcare career, drives him to exceed expectations and deliver exceptional results.
Austin’s appreciation for the ever-evolving nature of the design industry is evident in his love for projects with distinct personalities. Witnessing each unique design come to fruition is a constant source of inspiration for him. When he’s not orchestrating seamless operations at Revive, Austin can be found cheering on his favorite football and baseball teams, spending quality time with his friends and furry companion, or pushing his limits at the gym. His diverse background, unwavering work ethic, and passion for making a difference make him an integral part of the Revive team.
CEO
With 35 years in the real estate industry and an unwavering passion for construction and remodeling, David Caballero is a driving force behind Revive Design and Renovation. A founding partner of one of the nation’s largest single-family rental home companies, David has overseen the successful remodeling of thousands of homes, a testament to his leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to quality.
At Revive, David’s expertise extends far beyond spreadsheets and bottom lines. He finds true fulfillment in the creative process, tackling complex challenges with innovative solutions and a collaborative spirit. Witnessing the transformation of outdated kitchens and baths into stunning, modern spaces is what fuels his passion for the industry.
President
A founder of Revive Design and Renovation, Justin Caballero’s passion for remodeling isn’t just a career choice—it’s in his DNA. Raised in the heart of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Justin was immersed in the renovation business from a young age, gaining hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the industry. This early exposure ignited a lifelong passion, leading him to co-found Total Property Solutions (TPS), a renovation management company that has transformed hundreds of properties nationwide.
Justin’s unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and exceptional service propelled him to the forefront of the industry, earning him a spot in the prestigious National Kitchen & Bath Association’s “30 Under 30” class in 2022. His business acumen, honed through his studies in Real Estate and Finance at Ole Miss, ensures Revive’s continued success as he oversees the company’s operations. When he’s not orchestrating stunning home renovations, Justin can be found indulging in his love for reading, pushing his limits at the gym, or enjoying the simple pleasures of life on his boat with friends and family.
