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
