MARLA NAZZICONE: DESTINED TO DESIGN

She’s known since elementary school that her life was all about interior design. Marla Nazzicone had it all figured out before most us could tell time. “I went to an arts elementary school. It was called St. Michael’s Academy, in Thornhill, Ont., and I think that’s kind of where I fell in love with visual art.” The girl destined to be an integrative designer grew up in Richmond Hill, Ont., and has always been fascinated with luxury real estate. In fact, Nazzicone used to check out open houses on the weekends with her mother for fun. “I remember critiquing the houses secretly, and this is where my love for residential design was sparked. I think completing a space is more satisfying than finishing a painting because it’s really a piece of art that you interact with, and it impacts the way people live.”

After high school, Nazzicone continued her design journey, attending Ryerson University. “I think my background at Ryerson gave me really strong technical skills. It gave me all the tools necessary to execute my design visions properly.” Nazzicone is of the firm belief that attending design school was integral for helping her stand out as a young designer in such a competitive industry.