My MUSE | Nikki Pangari

Hello everyone,

Michele here, introducing you to this week’s MyMUSE: the vivacious, driven, sleek and understated Nikki Pangari.

After a successful career in finance, Nikki made the bold decision to change course and join her partner, Paul Izzard, at Izzard Design, a leading commercial interior design agency. With a portfolio that includes some of New Zealand's most impressive hospitality and commercial fit-outs, Izzard Design is a true powerhouse in the industry.

Nikki’s role at the agency is the perfect blend of numbers and creativity. From overseeing the business’s finances to curating beautiful furniture and design pieces, she’s clearly a force behind the scenes. Together with Paul, they make an incredible team and have managed to strike the elusive work-life balance—a feat that’s all the more challenging when working with your significant other!

Nikki is not one to sit still for too long. When she’s not globetrotting for design fairs or scouting inspiration, you’ll likely find her on the tennis court, exploring new adventures with friends, or dropping by our MUSE store—where we all admire her warm, down-to-earth nature and impressive work ethic.

I sat down with Nikki to chat about her journey at Izzard Design, the dynamics of working alongside your partner, and her personal sense of style.

 

 

Along with your partner, Paul Izzard, you run one of Auckland's leading design studios. Can you share the story of how Izzard Design came to be and what your role involves?

Izzard Design was created by Paul 20 years ago, following his move to Auckland from London after 10 years in the industry there. Since then the studio has grown into one of the go-to commercial Interior design agency’s with projects like Craggy Range, Bivacco and The Shy Guy. We met 16 years ago and as the agency progressed the decision was made that I move from my current financial job to working with Paul and assisting within the business.  I became involved with procuring furniture, fabrics and objects for our projects working alongside our wonderful creative team.  My job is very fulfilling and as the design industry is constantly changing  there is always something new and exciting to discover.  We love to travel to London and Milan for the design fair every few years or parts of America.  We travel quite extensively together and are always checking out different places for design inspo and meeting fabulous people along the way!

 

 

Working with your partner must present unique challenges! How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Fortunately, our roles are quite different so working together has never posed a problem, we also have very similar tastes when it comes to design so that makes it fun. We also prioritise  solo time with our friends individually, whether it be holidays away or visits with family, it keeps things healthy and refreshing!  

 

 

What does a typical day in the life look like for you?

Typically my day would start with an early morning dog walk with our beloved frenchie Edward, however he has recently left for greener fields. Still an early start though, gym or tennis, a healthy brekkie and then at the office by 8.30am to kick into the day.  Paul and I like to have lunch together when we can, then after work it's either home to cook a meal or off to one of our favourite eateries. On weekends we often pop over to Waiheke to catch up with friends and family. If we stay Auckland side, I love a spot of gardening, heading to the driving range, a round of golf, tennis or relaxing with a good book.

 

How would you describe your style?

Contemporary Classic, however I do love to glam it up when I get the opportunity!

 

 

What helps you get dressed in the morning? Is there a styling tip you always stick to?

The weather and what is in the diary for the day! When accessorising I always feel less is more especially when it comes to adornment.  A beautiful scarf compliments most outfits.

 

What's currently on your MUSE wish list? 

I love Magda Butrym. The Off Shoulder Draped Top in White, in particluar. 

VB’s Piping Detail Shirt in Ice Blue Satin Flowers is gorgeous, her gathered waist Midi dresses, are always so classic.

The Veronica Beard, Leilany top in Dark Chocolate, and Nili Lotan Joan Jean in Summer Wash.