Tell us about yourself & your company?
Maria: Hi! I’m Maria DeCotiis of Maria DeCotiis Interior Design, an interior designer with a modern lens on timeless design. Inspired by my travels and love of high fashion, my California-French aesthetic blends the effortlessness of West Coast living with the sophistication of my favourite European design capitals. Never precious, but always refined, my spaces evoke the ease of walking into a 5-star hotel, where every detail has been considered.
As the mother of three boys, I know how important it is for interior design to be durable, hardwearing, and comfortable for the entire family. As a stylist, perfectionist, and admirer of beauty in all its forms, I’m committed to creating refined spaces with special details that take your breath away.
I work with clients who have a sophisticated vision for their home but don’t have the time or expertise to achieve it. Through concierge-style services, I take the stress, conflict, and decision-fatigue out of interior design so my clients can enjoy the creative process and finally have a home that makes them feel like the best version of themselves. Specializing in new builds and whole-home decor packages, my firm is the ideal design firm for clients who value the special skill and time it takes to bring a dream home vision to life. Striking a delicate balance between comfort, function and luxury, we delivers elevated spaces for everyday living.
How did you get into the residential construction industry?
Maria: I’ve been around it all my life. My entire family is in the construction business and so I’ve always been involved. I used to visit the houses my dad built and when I was older I would help him select all the finishes. I didn’t realize it at the time that it could be a career and once I started design school I knew I was where I was meant to be.
What keeps you in the industry?
Maria: Seeing how a well designed home can transform a person’s life. I love helping people achieve the home of their dreams. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the joy in my clients.
While navigating covid-19, what new opportunities have you discovered?
Maria: Connecting with more people because of virtual meetings. I started reaching out to people and asked if they would meet over a virtual coffee! Something I would not have done prior to covid. It’s been great, I’ve been able to meet a lot of people without having to leave my desk.
It’s 11AM Saturday morning, what are you up to?
Maria: Trying to stay warm under the rain, while watching my boys play soccer.
What are your hobbies?
Maria: Is shopping a hobby?
Proudest moment?
Maria: Personally – my 3 boys are my proudest moment. In business – the first time I saw my project published in a magazine.
What have you done in your community in the last year?
Maria: I attended the Dress For Success luncheon and was apart of the silent auction. It felt amazing to give back to a cause that I feel is so impactful for women and their success in life.
Favourite HAVAN moment and why?
Maria: I’m still new, but looking forward to creating one this year.
Best work perk at your job?
Maria: Having the flexibility to create my own schedule.
Last HAVAN member you spoke to?
Maria: Cara from Cara Interiors
What inspires you?
Maria: Travel, fashion and other creative people
What are you excited for / looking forward to right now?
Maria: I’m excited to move into my new office and growing my team.
Share an interesting fact about your life?
Maria: I met my husband on a family vacation to Italy when I was 17. We had a long distance relationship for 3 years and we were married in Italy in 2006. That was one of the hardest seasons of my life but it taught me how strong I really am.
Last piece of advice you have received?
Maria: Have fun, whatever it is, growing a company, learning new things just have fun with it.
Starbucks order?
Maria: Grande extra hot almond milk latte with blonde espresso no foam and cinnamon powder on top.
Song on repeat right now?
Maria: Nothing right now, I listen to so many podcasts I haven’t listened to music in a while.
Where were you born?
Maria: Burnaby, born and raised.
Pets?
Maria: Nope, the kids are asking for a puppy but I’m not ready for that yet.
Favourite holiday / destination?
Maria: Hawaii
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
Maria: I’m Italian, the obvious answer is no lol. With pizza simple is better.
First concert?
Maria: New Kids on the Block, I was 6 and living my best life!
Last book read?
Maria: Atomic Habits, I highly recommend it.
Fun fact about you?
Maria: I used to dream of being a singer growing up and have even had my song played on the local radio.
What do you collect?
Maria: Shoes
Netflix guilty pleasure?
Maria: Emily in Paris
Anything else you’d like to add?
Maria: I’m really exciting to be a part of HAVAN and look forward to getting to know the other members.
