Thirty Under 30: Sebastian Hernandez

By Donna Heiderstadt

When asked to name his most memorable career moment, Sebastian Hernandez couldn’t — because he has two of them. One was the very first project he worked on with his dad, Gilberto, with whom he co-founded Flanders, NJ-based Hernz Home Improvements in 2021: the simple installation of three shelves in a laundry room. “It was the beginning of everything and I got to do it alongside my father,” he says. The second was a full-home interior remodel, because he was involved in every step. “The process was fun, the results were stunning, and most importantly, the client was thrilled,” he notes.

As Owner and General Manager of a business that in just four years he has helped grow from a start-up handyman service to a seven-figure design-build firm with its own design studio and team, 28-year-old Sebastian has embraced innovation, detail-driven design and a client-centric approach. “Watching my vision take shape and then become a shared vision with my team — has been incredibly rewarding,” he says. “What makes it most meaningful is knowing that along the way, we’ve been able to impact so many people.”

Sebastian, who says the one word that best describes him is “resilient,” notes that focusing on his entrepreneurial vision has helped him develop an appreciation for all design styles. “In our company, design always comes from a creative process that involves diving deep into our clients’ preferences,” he explains. That said, he does admit that his personal favorite is modern farmhouse. “I love the clean lines, natural materials, sleek finishes, a touch of moodiness and the small details that bring it all together,” he says. “Most importantly, I love when spaces are functional, feel comfortable, are inviting and look stunning.”

Sebastian, who is engaged to his fiancée, Diana, spends his non-working hours enjoying physical activities — playing sports such as soccer, competing in Spartan races and working out in the gym — as well as reading and enjoying time with his family, friends and his schnauzer-terrier mix, Lucas. You may also find him heading to the airport to satisfy his passion for travel. “I’ve enjoyed every country and city I’ve visited so far, but from a design perspective, Rome and Barcelona stand out the most,” he says. “The stunning architecture and breathtaking craftsmanship in their historic buildings left a lasting impression on me.”

What lasting impression does Sebastian himself hope to leave? “On my life’s ‘must do’ list is continuing to grow my business while also creating a full and meaningful life outside of it,” he says. “I want to travel the world, experience new cultures and build a family. Leaving a positive impact both in the industry and in the lives of those around me is what truly matters to me.”