Breaking Barriers in Construction: Nicky Ricciardi’s Bold Journey With HPM Craftsmen

There’s something unforgettable about walking into a home that’s been transformed—not just renovated, but reimagined. Behind that transformation, more often than not, stands a visionary. For many homeowners in the Hudson Valley, that visionary is Nicky Ricciardi, the powerhouse behind HPM Craftsmen, a general contracting firm based in Holmes, New York.

Nicky didn’t just enter the world of homebuilding—she challenged it. In a field where women are still vastly underrepresented, she built something far greater than a business. She built a space for creativity, collaboration, and excellence. With an eye for design and a deep understanding of what makes a house feel like a home, Nicky has led HPM Craftsmen to become one of the most trusted names in residential renovation across the region.

Her path wasn’t paved. It was carved out—carefully, deliberately, and with grit. What started as a passion for design turned into an obsession with the details: the curve of a doorway, the way light hits a reclaimed wood beam, how storage solutions can be both clever and beautiful. Her love for this work runs deep, and it’s evident in every project she touches.

When Nicky launched HPM Craftsmen, she wanted to do more than swing hammers and hang drywall. She envisioned a company where the relationship with the client was as carefully built as the spaces themselves. Every project is personal. Whether it’s a kitchen overhaul, a whole-home remodel, or a custom addition, she makes it a point to truly understand the people who will live in that space—their habits, their tastes, their needs. For Nicky, construction is never just transactional; it’s transformational.

That personal approach has earned her more than just repeat business—it’s earned her admiration. Clients praise her for being responsive, transparent, and incredibly organized. But more than that, they appreciate how she makes them feel heard, seen, and empowered during a process that can often be overwhelming. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to tear up during the final reveal, seeing their ideas brought to life with care they didn’t think was possible.

Of course, being a woman in construction brings its own set of challenges. Nicky has faced skepticism, doubt, and outright surprise when she walks onto a job site or leads a client meeting. But she doesn’t let it slow her down. In fact, it fuels her. She’s not here just to break ground—she’s here to break stereotypes. Her success is proof that leadership, vision, and precision don’t come with a gender.

The team she’s built at HPM Craftsmen reflects that ethos. It’s a collaborative, skilled, and passionate group who share her values: integrity, clear communication, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Together, they bring dream homes to life with a balance of creative flair and technical expertise.

Nicky’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2024, she was featured in Hudson Valley Magazine’s “Women in Business” spotlight, recognized for her impact not only on homes but on the industry itself. It was a moment that affirmed what her clients and colleagues already knew: she’s not just building houses—she’s building a legacy.

As for what’s next? Nicky isn’t slowing down. She’s exploring new design techniques, expanding her reach, and mentoring the next wave of women interested in skilled trades. Her story is still being written—but one thing’s clear: wherever her path leads, it will be intentional, beautiful, and built to last.

FAQs

Q1: What does HPM Craftsmen specialize in?

They focus on residential renovations, including full remodels, additions, and custom design-build services in the Hudson Valley.

Q2: Where is Nicky based?

She operates out of Holmes, New York, serving clients across the region.

Q3: What makes Nicky’s approach unique?

Her emphasis on personal client relationships, eye for design, and passion for detail set her apart in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Q4: Has Nicky received any recognition?

Yes—she was featured in Hudson Valley Magazine’s “Women in Business 2024” for her leadership in construction.