Meet Mari: A Visionary Designer with a Story to Tell
If you’ve had the pleasure of meeting Mari, you already know she brings a quiet confidence, a sharp design eye, and an unwavering love for spaces that feel like home. But behind the effortless style and steady energy is a journey shaped by city grit, New England charm, and a whole lot of passion for design—and we think it’s about time you got to know her story.
Mari was born in New York City, raised on the hum of creativity, movement, and resilience. In 2005, her family made the move to Florida, trading high-rises for palm trees—but Mari never lost that metropolitan energy. Her love for interiors sparked early, when a high school design class flipped a switch and set her on the path she’s on today.
Like so many in the industry, the pandemic shifted more than just perspective. During Covid, Mari spent two transformative years designing in New England, immersing herself in a different architectural language and learning how regional context can deeply shape aesthetic and function. That experience widened her design lens and sharpened her skills—and she brought all of that experience back with her when she returned to Florida in 2022.
She joined a high-end luxury design firm in Winter Park, starting as an interior design assistant and quickly rising to oversee the FF&E department. If you know Mari, you know she’s not one to stay still for long. Her attention to detail, her ability to see both the big picture and the smallest spec, and her deep care for how people live in their spaces made her an essential force on every project she touched.
Her architectural instincts run deep—thanks in large part to her father, who she watched build just about everything they had growing up. That early exposure gave her a love for structure and form, and a deep respect for the hands that bring design to life. Ask her about her favorite building and she’ll light up talking about Casa Batlló in Barcelona. She hasn’t seen it in person (yet), but it’s a bucket list must—and knowing Mari, it’s only a matter of time.
Outside of work, Mari’s world revolves around her son. They spend their free time outdoors—hiking, biking, and soaking up every bit of Florida sunshine. Nature recharges her, grounds her, and inspires the lived-in warmth she brings to every design.
Mari says her goal is simple: to create spaces that feel like home and provide the warmth that comes with making memories. At R. Nickson Interiors, we think that’s the heart of what great design is all about—and we’re beyond lucky to have her bringing that vision to life every day.
Q&A with Mari
1. If you had a blank check to design any space—what would it be and why?
“I want to help redefine the standard for hospital design. I don’t think it’s been perfected yet—most spaces feel cold and uninspired. There’s so much potential to make hospitals more uplifting. I believe we need better materials and products specifically designed for these environments—ones that are not only functional but also bring comfort and a sense of joy to patients and visitors alike.”
2. If your design style had a theme song, what would it be?
“Bottom of the River- Delta Rae”
3. What’s your perfect day off look like from morning to night?
“A perfect day for me is being surrounded by mountains. There’s nothing better than enjoying a cup of coffee on a porch, watching the sunrise on a crisp, cold morning. I’d spend the afternoon hiking with my son, taking in the fresh air and quiet moments. Then we’d head home, unwind, and end the day watching a movie together. Simple, peaceful, and full of the things I love most.”
4. You get a weekend to yourself—are you hiking, exploring a new town, or deep-diving into a new book/show?
“A weekend to myself—wow, it’s been a while! Honestly, I’d probably just enjoy being at home, maybe run a few errands, and binge some Netflix movies. Nothing fancy—just soaking in the simple things in life.”
5. What’s your dream travel destination and who’s coming with you?
“I’ve always dreamed of going to Spain to see Casa Batlló in person—it’s been at the top of my list for years. And of course, my niece would be with me. We’re only a year apart, and she’s my go-to travel buddy.”
6. You’re hosting a dinner party—who’s your dream guest, and what’s on the playlist?
“Bad Bunny—seriously, I’d love to meet that kind soul one day. Lol. I’d even put him on to some new music. ‘Hey Alexa, play ZZ Ward Radio!’ ”
