Nina Magon is a visionary designer whose work spans the worlds of luxury interiors, product development, and now, real estate. With a dynamic career that includes collaborations with prestigious brands like Cosentino and Bergdorf Goodman, and features in Architectural Digest and Elle Décor, Nina has cemented her place as a leading voice in contemporary design.
Drawing on years of experience and her roots in a real estate family, Nina is merging her passion for design with her entrepreneurial spirit, bringing bold and functional concepts to life. Known for her attention to detail and distinctive “wow” factor in every project, she is setting new standards in design, crafting spaces and experiences that resonate on a global scale. With a rebranding on the horizon and an expanding presence in major cities, Nina Magon is undoubtedly shaping the future of luxury design. Her recent ventures, including the launch of her real estate brand MAGON and her first coffee table book EVOKE, showcase her commitment to pushing creative boundaries while honouring timeless elegance. Nina sits down to have a quick tête-à-tête with The Peacock Magazine, talking about her design philosophies, some of her favourite projects and what’s next in store for her.
Q) When did you first realise that you wanted a career in the design industry? How did you navigate your path from there?
Nina Magon (NM): I studied economics and finance at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. During my time there, I initially thought I wanted to become a fashion designer. I was actively involved in organizing fashion shows in Dallas on the side and even took weekend fashion classes at the Art Institute of Dallas. After graduating, I returned to Houston, where I decided to compete with Victoria’s Secret by opening a European lingerie store in the Houston Galleria. Running that store for two years taught me that retail was challenging, especially since scaling up required multiple locations.
After closing the store, I joined my family’s real estate business, focusing on multifamily properties. I then ventured into luxury home construction, hiring a superintendent to teach me the intricacies of building. I handled the design elements, picking out tiles and flooring, and found I had a knack for it—earning more on one house than I had in two years of retailing. Soon, people were asking me who designed the house, and that’s when I discovered interior design as a profession. I took interior design and architectural courses part-time at the Art Institute of Houston, even hiring some of my teachers to work with me on architectural work. A teacher from Colombia introduced me to modern design, and that experience inspired me to pursue a contemporary, forward-thinking design aesthetic.
From there, I worked on small projects for friends, but my real breakthrough came in 2013 when I joined a design competition show on NBC. Competing alongside renowned designers, I learned immensely and advanced to the final round, which helped launch my career. Following that, I landed a project with Saks Fifth Avenue, and my journey truly took off.
Q) Your design aesthetic is known for boldness and modernity. How do you incorporate daring elements while ensuring timelessness in your projects?
NM: I found my design idols early on, especially Peter Marino, whose work on Chanel and Louis Vuitton stores exuded a unique glamour and boldness that I admired. In the U.S., traditional design tends to dominate, but Marino’s avant-garde approach inspired me to push boundaries. I decided to seek out distinctive pieces and unique design elements that could make a space feel one-of-a-kind.
My team and I attend international design shows like Salone del Mobile in Milan and Art Basel in Miami. These events expose us to a diverse range of talent and styles, which helps us envision home interiors as sanctuaries—so unique and inspiring enough that people feel they never need to leave. This philosophy has guided our approach to creating homes and commercial spaces that are far from ordinary.
Q) With a global portfolio and clients ranging from star athletes to prominent families, how do you ensure each project captures the unique identity of your client?
NM: Just as clients interview us, we interview them. We aim to work with clients who are willing to embrace out-of-the-box designs. If a client is set on a traditional style, we might not be the best fit for them. We inspire our clients by showing them not only what they like but also what their homes could look like. Those who hire us are typically seeking uniqueness and are excited to push the boundaries, which aligns perfectly with our philosophy.
Q) You’re celebrated for balancing creative vision with business acumen. How do you manage the artistic and entrepreneurial aspects of your work?
NM: The business side is crucial. Many designers focus solely on creativity, but to succeed, you need to think about budgets, timelines, and client expectations. Without strong business skills, even the most talented designers would struggle. I often think about the talented artists I’ve seen in Italy; they create stunning work but lack the business skills to break into broader markets. In design, creativity is only a part of the equation—the rest relies on understanding and applying solid business principles.
Q) Could you tell us about your recent marble accessories collection with Bergdorf Goodman NYC? What inspired the collection, and how does it align with your design philosophy?
NM: The marble accessories collection with Bergdorf started with table mats, but quickly expanded. I wanted to offer pieces that were luxurious and unique, which was lacking in their home section. We selected different colours and styles to make the pieces stand out, and the response has been incredible. We’re almost sold out, and I’m excited to work with Bergdorf on future collections that continue to fill these kinds of gaps in the market.
Q) As a designer inspired by world cultures, how do you integrate those influences while staying true to your unique style?
NM: I purposefully built a multicultural team, with members from Colombia, Spain, Venezuela, China, and Korea. Each team member brings insights from their own culture, enriching our projects. My travels also inspire my designs; I often capture unique architectural elements, like mouldings from Paris, to incorporate into our projects. This global perspective is integral to our approach and adds depth to our work.
Q) As the U.S. Ambassador for Maison Et Objet, what does this role mean to you, and how will it influence the design landscape?
NM: Being appointed as the U.S. Ambassador for Maison Et Objet is a huge honour. It represents a bridge between the U.S. and the global design community. This French trade fair for interior design includes products from around the world, and my role is to bring greater visibility to this incredible event. Maison Et Objet is also focusing on promoting women in design, a mission close to my heart. As a woman, wife, and mother in a male-dominated field, I understand the challenges women face. Recognising women’s contributions to design is essential, and I’m proud to help drive this change.
Q) What advice would you give young designers who want to build a strong creative portfolio and a sustainable business?
NM: My advice is to think with both sides of the brain. Creativity is vital, but you also need a strong point of view and an understanding of business. Clarity on your design aesthetic and how you position yourself in the market is essential. Many designers struggle because their vision isn’t focused. A clear and distinct voice is what sets successful designers apart.
Q) Could you share some challenges you faced with projects like Cocody Restaurant and the Nina Magon Lounge at Zadok Jewelers?
NM: Every project has challenges. With Zadok Jewelers, for example, we transformed a storage room with only an 8-foot ceiling into a high-end meeting space for top executives from brands like Cartier and Piaget. The project required us to think creatively to make the space feel luxurious despite its limitations. As designers, we’re part mathematicians, therapists, and problem solvers, navigating unexpected hurdles on every project.
Q) You’ve developed products for brands like Cosentino and Bergdorf Goodman and recently launched your own real estate brand, MAGON. What motivated you to venture into product and real estate development, and how do these align with your goals for the Nina Magon Studio?
NM: Absolutely. Over the years, I realised I’ve been working with various developers and clients, and I thought, why not try our own development? With all the experience I’ve gained, it seemed like a natural progression to start developing ourselves. Our first project in real estate development is a luxury townhome community of 19 units, with four already completed. Of course, there are budget constraints, so we’ve designed these homes to fit specific price points. However, we’ve incorporated features that we know clients want, like spacious closets—insights we’ve gathered through years of experience. I’m deeply interested in real estate development; it’s an exciting business that aligns well with my design background and roots in a real estate family. We’re still refining our direction, working closely with an advisory board to map out our next steps for the coming year.
Q) Your work has been featured in prestigious outlets like Architectural Digest and Elle Décor, and you recently launched your coffee table book EVOKE. How do you view these publications as part of your broader brand narrative?
NM: Publications play a crucial role in establishing our brand’s credibility. They help tell our story, showcase our designs, and build confidence among clients. EVOKE, my coffee table book, holds a special place in my heart. The fact that it was picked up by Monicelli, a major publisher, was a tremendous honour. They approved it in the very first meeting, which felt like a reward for all the years I’ve dedicated to design. I was involved in every detail of the book, from the layout to the iridescent cover and even featuring myself in various designer looks to emphasize how fashion inspires my work. Launching the book at a B&B Italia event during New York Fashion Week, surrounded by renowned brands and industry leaders, was surreal. It was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career.
Q) Winning awards across various design categories, from interiors to product design, speaks to your versatility. What are the key principles you rely on across these different types of projects?
NM: For me, the key principles are budget, functionality, and uniqueness. We never present designs to clients that can’t be built within the given budget. Every design must balance form and function; it has to work as well as it looks. I also ensure each design feels fresh and original. I ask myself: ‘Is this something we’ve seen before, or does it stand out?’ Finally, we always identify a “wow” moment—a focal point that draws attention without overwhelming the space.
Q) What advice would you give to someone starting in your industry today?
NM: Find someone whose work you admire and study their journey. Design is so subjective, and there are countless styles and philosophies. Emulating the path of an idol can provide direction. Interestingly, many graduates we interview today struggle to name designers they admire, which I find surprising. They should be familiar with current leaders in the field, rather than only referencing historical figures like Frank Lloyd Wright. Knowing today’s icons is essential in staying connected to the industry.
Q) What’s next for Nina Magon Studio and you? Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations that you’re particularly excited about?
NM: Yes, we have a major launch coming in January, which reflects a more focused and elevated direction for the brand. We’re also expanding our presence in different cities and introducing our own product line under the MAGON brand. It’s an exciting rebrand, and I can’t wait for everyone to see what we’ve been working on. Expect teasers in December and the full launch in the second week of January.