From Finance Graduate to Interior Design Icon, Nina Magon Seamlessly Blends Contemporary Aesthetics with Timeless Sophistication
By Josie NeJame
Nina Magon is a name synonymous with luxury, innovation, and elegance in the world of interior design. As the founder and principal of Nina Magon Studio, she has carved out a unique niche by seamlessly blending contemporary modern aesthetics with timeless sophistication. Her work not only transforms spaces but also elevates the everyday experiences of those who inhabit them.
Born in Canada and raised in Houston, Texas, Nina Magon developed an interest in design from a young age. Her Indian heritage and multicultural experiences provided her with a unique perspective on aesthetics and functionality. Initially, Magon pursued a degree in Finance and Economics at Southern Methodist University before deciding to follow her passion for design. She further honed her skills at The Art Institute of Houston, graduating with honors. Her journey from a finance graduate to a celebrated interior designer is a testament to her passion, talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Magon’s ability to create luxurious, functional, and personalized spaces has set her apart in the industry. As she continues to innovate and push the boundaries of design, her influence is sure to grow, inspiring a new generation of designers and design enthusiasts.
In 2008, Magon founded Nina Magon Studio, a full-service interior design firm based in Houston. Her vision was to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional and reflective of the client’s personality. From residential to commercial projects, her firm quickly gained a reputation for delivering high-quality designs that push the boundaries of traditional interiors.
Nina Magon gained national attention in 2011 when she was invited to compete on NBC’s television show, American Dream Builders, featuring twelve interior designers vying to be named the best in the nation. Magon ended up placing second, which propelled her into the spotlight and led to prestigious opportunities. Saks Fifth Avenue Houston enlisted her to design their 51Fifteen restaurant in the affluent Galleria area of Houston, Texas.
Magon’s unique ability to bridge fashion and interior design has led to collaborations with renowned brands. She designed a collection with Bergdorf Goodman and was featured in the 97th edition of Neiman Marcus’s iconic Christmas Book, known for its legendary fantasy gifts. One of the standout items was a Milan-designed experience with Nina Magon, priced at $380,000. With its purchase, Magon personally donated $10,000 to The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center.
In 2022, Nina Magon won gold, silver, and bronze for best product design at New York’s prestigious BDNY Awards. She was also a finalist in the BOY Design Awards, won Lux Magazine’s Readers’ Choice Award, and was named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Asian Chamber of Commerce. In 2023, Magon published her book Evoke, which explores the connection between fashion and interior design. This work underscores her belief in the synergy between these two fields. Balmain’s Olivier Rousteing collaborated with Magon on a special project at the Mandarin Oriental Residences in Beverly Hills. Magon’s curation of the penthouse complemented and highlighted the signature elements of Balmain’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection, demonstrating how interior design and fashion can inform, enhance, and elevate each other when details align, and visions are unified.
In a world where interior design often oscillates between fleeting trends and rigid traditions, Nina Magon’s work stands as a beacon of enduring style and sophisticated luxury. Whether through her stunning residential projects, her contributions to hospitality design, or her entrepreneurial endeavors, Magon continuously redefines what it means to live beautifully. As she continues to innovate and push the boundaries of design, her influence is sure to grow, inspiring a new generation of designers and design enthusiasts.
Here’s a lovely chat that I had with Nina Magon.
How is your personal style linked to your work?
My personal style serves as a direct manifestation of my design ethos. I am drawn to bold, edgy, and contemporary aesthetics that stir profound emotions, whether in fashion or interiors. This innate connection empowers me to infuse every project with a distinct blend of sophistication and daring elegance. I am committed to crafting spaces that not only exude luxury but also serve as genuine reflections of my unmistakable style.
I love that the Houston Chronicle named you as one of the most stylish people in Houston. How would you describe your personal style in fashion?
In the realm of fashion, my personal style epitomizes edgy modernity, bold refinement, and timeless sophistication, all underscored by an enduring sense of elegance. I relish integrating distinct statement pieces that echo my confidence and boundless creativity, mirroring the ethos evident in my design endeavors.
Name a fashion designer that understands your everyday daytime look and one that understands your glammed night out look.
For my daytime ensemble, Alice and Olivia effortlessly embody the epitome of chic, vibrant, and effortless style that resonates with me. When the evening calls for glamour, I turn to Balmain’s bold, luxurious, and edgy designs, which make a resounding statement that perfectly aligns with my aesthetic preferences.
You’ve collaborated with a lot of amazing luxurious brands. Which brand has been your favorite to partner with to date and why?
Partnering with Balmain has been an exceptional journey in fashion collaboration. Their daring, opulent, and edgy designs seamlessly resonate with my own aesthetic sensibilities, elevating every aspect of our collaboration. When it came to the launch of my coffee table book, EVOKE, the decision to collaborate with Balmain was a natural fit, not only because of my profound admiration for their brand but also because I adorned their designs in the book’s photography. Their creation of custom book bags from Balmain fabric added an unparalleled sense of luxury and exclusivity to the event, perfectly merging my passions for interior design and fashion into a truly unforgettable experience.
Can you tell us about a new trend that we’re expected to see in the fall within interior design?
Anticipate a revival of sumptuous, earthy hues intermingled with sleek, contemporary accents this fall. Envision a palette adorned with deep greens, terracottas, and inviting warm neutrals, complemented by striking, organic patterns and indulgent textures such as velvet and brass. This trend embodies a seamless fusion of tranquil, nature-inspired serenity and refined, modern sophistication.
Any chance we may see your designs in Orlando soon?
Continuously seeking new horizons and ventures, I find myself drawn to the potential of Orlando. While details remain under wraps for now, I am eagerly contemplating the prospect of infusing my design ethos into the vibrant fabric of this city. It’s a thrilling possibility that ignites my imagination, and I look forward to sharing more as plans unfold.
You have had so many incredible accomplishments in the last decade. What’s next for you, Nina?
Embarking on the next phase of my journey, I am poised to extend my brand’s reach across the globe, introducing innovative product lines and spearheading real estate ventures under our brand name. As I continue to challenge the conventions of design, nurturing creativity and mentorship holds paramount importance to me. Exciting ventures are underway. Stay tuned!
