Marla Nardi of Ethan Allen Retail, Stamford, CT

Clean, fresh, inviting – all contribute to Marla’s design approach. For Marla, the details are most important – each room comes together through the details. In these stressful times, Marla appreciates how important it is for clients to find relaxation in the comfort of their own homes. Marla started her career in the apparel industry, acting as both Director of Sales and Regional Manager for national retailers. Her work enabled her to enjoy the NYC lifestyle for over a decade where she reported to CEOs and other power brokers in the apparel industry. While developing her proficiency for budgeting, planning, and project management, Marla’s career also rewarded her ability to be innovative, experimental, and creative. Amazingly, all of these skills contribute to her success as an interior designer. At Ethan Allen Retail for almost two decades, Marla is experienced in all aspects of design. Most important to Marla is building a relationship with each client. “I have worked with many of my clients for years. I work to build a complete design for each client. It is not important if it happens immediately or a little at a time. What is important is that I gain a lifetime client and of course, happy clients are my best source of new business. For me, it’s a relationship based on trust.” On the design process: “It’s important for my clients to be vested in the project yet I respect the time they are able to give. The design process can easily become overwhelming. I work at keeping it fun. I encourage clients to share photos, objects, and other sources of inspiration that are meaningful to them.” The keys to a successful design project: “Open communication, good organization, and lots of hard work are all essential to a successful project. I understand that some people rate shopping for home furnishings on par with having a root canal. That’s where I come in – to make the experience a pleasant one.” Design niches: “I sell all categories. I am skilled at draperies, custom beddings and pillows. I love the accents. Just the right amount of accents really adds pizzazz. I am a complete designer, meaning I relish all the tools of the trade. I have a great eye and I love pulling colors and textures together.” Favorite activity: “Hunting for the perfect thing. I am the ‘gift buyer’ for family and friends. It’s serendipity that a design career chose me.”