Mari Vattekar Markman is an Oslo based interior architect and designer with over 10 years experience in the field. Her speciality is extensive restorations and renovations of historical buildings. Working for clients across Norway and Sweden, she has become known for her ability to create unique and soulful interiors with superior finish and quality detailing without compromising on the atmosphere and personality of an old building. All creative work is performed by Mari herself. She has a support team consisting of a technical drawing specialist, economy/administration staff and an illustrator to take off some of the work load.

A note from Mari

I have always had an especially good eye for detail and loved immersing myself in all things creative. Growing up I was constantly drawing, knitting, embroidering or weaving in addition to being my big brother’s faithful assistant in all his building projects. As a teenager, I dreamt of becoming an interior architect, however when time came to study I ended up with a Master of Science in Financial Economics. This led me to work in the Norwegian shipping and banking sector as a Foreign Exchange and Interest Rates Analyst. Although I found this work interesting and rewarding, over time I felt that I didn’t get to use all of me, and slowly, the urge to work in a more creative business materialised.

After having lived abroad for several periods, being inspired by numerous cultures, individuals and landscapes, I finally decided to start studying at KLC School of Design in London to embark on a new chapter in life. And I have never looked back.

Today, I feel blessed to work with my passion. I also feel blessed to be back in Oslo where I grew up as the nature here gives me so much and the people make me feel at home. When it comes to my work, I pride myself in having a personalised approach to design and as such, I do not impose the same style upon all clients. Quite contrary, I find it very important to treat every project and every client individually as I am a firm believer that taste, needs and lifestyles are just that - individual. Another important part of my design ethos is my belief that interior design has a huge impact on human health. The products we surround ourselves with must promote good indoor air quality and overall wellbeing. Consequently, I favour natural materials and handmade products over industrially mass-produced ones. I also spend a lot of time sourcing worldwide for one of a kind, unique pieces that only one client has. And I love diving deep into the personalities of every single client to come up with solutions, ideas and proposals perfectly suited for them and only them.

XXX Mari