Belnic Constructions | building intuitive, efficient, and patient-centric spaces

Urban Development alumnae, Nicole Detsimas (ND) and Hayley Bell (HB) combined their skills in design and project management to start Belnic Constructions in 2018 in response to a need for further creativity and flexibility in their work.

After seven years running complex, unique and high-quality interior projects for technical and specialised industries, the pair are specialists in understanding a client’s ‘why’ in order to create spaces that feel intuitive, efficient, and patient-centric.

The QUT Alumni Team sat down with Nicole and Hayley to chat about how their experiences studying together at QUT helped build a solid foundation of trust, shared values and work ethic to run their business.

Can you tell us about your journey since graduating from QUT?

ND – While I was studying Construction Management at QUT, I managed to secure a cadetship with Mainbrace Constructions where I started in estimating, before moving into contract administration and eventually project management. I then started my own business as a consultant, doing client-side project management and contract work for other builders, until we started BELNIC.

HB – After graduating, I worked with Tier 2 fitout builders, delivering high-end interior projects - mainly in commercial office spaces, with a mix of health and science work as well. I started out as a Contract Administrator and eventually moved into a Project Manager role.

Fast forward a few years to 2018, we started BELNIC. As a Director, I wear a lot of hats, but I’m still hands-on with project delivery, which is something I’m genuinely passionate about.

How did you first connect or decide to work together?

ND - We were having a coffee in the park one morning and were talking about the future. We wanted to have a lifestyle that supported us doing what we loved, but we both also wanted to do things differently from the experiences we previously had working with other builders. We realised we both had very specific requirements in what we wanted from our workplace, so we decided to create our own! After 4 years of studying at QUT with Hayley, I knew we shared the same values and work ethic so I knew we would do great things together.

What roles do each of you play in the partnership, and how do your strengths complement each other?

ND – I look after the pre-construction side of the business (design management + estimating). I really like managing the beginning of the customer journey, and it’s always so much easier to ‘sell’ an idea when you know you’ve got someone you can rely on to deliver it to a high standard.

HB – Alongside sharing the day-to-day running of the business, my focus is on project delivery. Once the design is locked in, I take over to manage the build and see it through to completion.

We stay in our lanes but work closely to ensure a smooth handover from concept to construction. Our personalities complement each other too – Nicole is fast-paced and a strong communicator, while I’m more detail-oriented and relationship-focused. We trust each other and lean into what we each do best.

What was the inspiration behind BELNIC Constructions and why did you decide to specialise in fitouts?

ND – Risk management was a big consideration when we were going into business for ourselves, and fitout has a lower risk profile than a new-build. Weather and in-ground conditions aren’t typically a factor, which reduces contractual risk; and we have less structural tradework, which reduces WH&S risk. The focus on specialist fitout was because we still wanted to work on interesting projects and the medical and science space is always interesting!

HB – My background was in delivering high-end fitouts, and I’ve always been drawn to the fast pace of that world. It’s challenging, but incredibly rewarding - seeing a space transformed and knowing the impact it has is something I never get tired of. Over time, I also had the opportunity to work on more technical and specialist spaces, which sparked a real interest in how design and workflow influence the end use. That combination of creativity, precision, and purpose really stuck with me - so starting a business that specialises in exactly that felt like a natural next step.

How has understanding a client’s ‘why’ helped shape a fitout that made a real impact?

HB – Understanding a client’s ‘why’ as well as their operational needs - is essential. We consider workflow efficiency, accessibility, safety, and the overall comfort of both staff and patients. When these things are considered, the result is a space that feels intuitive, efficient, and patient-centric.

In a recent Cancer Centre fitout, the client’s vision was to create an environment that felt more like a five-star hotel than a clinical facility. Their goal was to ensure patients felt cared for, comfortable, and at ease—rather than overwhelmed by a cold, sterile atmosphere. Designing with that vision in mind transformed the space completely.

What have been some of your biggest lessons or proudest moments in building Belnic Constructions?

ND – One of my proudest moments was when we built a strong enough foundation to start hiring other people. I was terrified of having employees because it is such a big responsibility. But during the first three years of our business, we built strong processes, relationships and financials, which made it an easy transition.

The projects I’m most proud of are the ones we’ve done in the Queensland Children’s Hospital. We worked hard to make sure the space was the best it could be for the most vulnerable members of our community.

What advice would you give to current QUT students or recent grads about their next steps, especially around collaboration?

ND – Group assignments might be painful, but they are one of the best examples of what project work will be like. You will have to work with people of all skill levels, backgrounds and work ethic. I’ve had people ghost me when they haven’t done their work by the deadline! How you manage situations like that in a group assignment is great practice for your work-life.

HB – Surround yourself with people who challenge your thinking and bring different perspectives. Also, be curious and open. You don’t need to have all the answers - what matters is your willingness to listen, contribute, and adapt – showing initiative and being open to feedback.

How do you stay inspired and keep your ideas fresh?

ND – I love going to professional development events, particularly in the design space. We don’t do in-house design, but understanding why things are designed the way they are makes it easier for us to keep the design intent at the forefront when we are problem solving during the build.

I also really love meeting and talking with people!  Whether it’s senior members of industry that can share knowledge or students who are motivated or inquisitive, I get a lot of energy from those interactions!

HB – Honestly, I just love learning. Every project teaches me something new - whether it’s a different way of working, a unique challenge, or a fresh perspective from a client. Our business is also continuously growing and evolving whether it is new employees, or new procedures - that constant variety keeps me on my toes and makes the work exciting.

Can you name some of the individuals who inspire you? What qualities in these individuals do you admire and seek to emulate in your own work/life?

HB – I’m inspired by people who lead with purpose and stay grounded while doing big things - those who are generous with their knowledge, calm under pressure, and genuinely care about the people around them. I really admire resilience, emotional intelligence, and the ability to make smart, practical decisions while staying focused on what truly matters - even in the face of complexity. Those are the qualities I try to bring into my own work and life every day.

What is one skill you couldn’t live without and why?

ND – Communication skills. Being able to clearly articulate what needs to be done, what I’m thinking or feeling, or asking questions and working through things with others is critical for us in managing projects AND a business.

HB – My ability to get things done. No matter how busy or complex a project gets, I’ll always find a way to make it happen. That reliability builds trust. Also, strong relationships are everything. Being able to connect with people, keep communication open, and build genuine rapport - that’s what makes projects run smoothly and keeps teams working well together.

QUT degrees

Hayley - Bachelor of Urban Development (2014)
Nicole - Bachelor of Business (2008) and Bachelor of Urban Development (2014)

Do you have a question for Hayley or Nicole? Connect with them via Linkedin.