MARISSA ZAJACK A Flair for Interior Design

| BY HELÉNE RAMACKERS PHOTOS BY DAVID CELOMARA

Storytelling through design is what Marissa Zajack is most passionate about. Upscale Living magazine spoke with her about her career as a graphic designer in film, to where she is today, heading up her own interior designer firm.

Marissa, please tell us a bit about yourself.

I am a versatile and multi-talented designer, skilled in a wide range of visual media, including interior design, branding, textiles, and wallpaper. My creative journey began in the captivating world of film, where I started as a graphic designer, honing my artistic talents and storytelling skills. As my career blossomed, I expanded my expertise beyond the film industry, collaborating with various companies to develop captivating brand identities. During this time, my passion for designing environments became evident to my friends, who quickly recognized my flair for interior design and sought my advice on all matters related to transforming spaces. My first official project as an interior designer was an exciting restaurant venture. Since then, I have been dedicated to crafting captivating and inspiring spaces for clients across different projects. Each new opportunity fuels my love for creating enchanting environments and brings boundless joy to my creative journey

Did you have an influence in your youth that shaped your career path?

Growing up in my father’s advertising photography studio alongside my mother, who ran the operation, was a truly enriching experience. After school, my sister and I would eagerly observe photo shoots, witnessing the harmonious collaboration between my father, art directors, advertising executives, stylists, and assistants as they brought concepts to life. Those formative years immersed in the world of creativity left an indelible mark on me, igniting a passion for artistic expression and problem-solving. The studio became a priceless masterclass in creative teamwork, effective communication, and meticulous craftsmanship, inspiring and shaping my journey in various endeavors.

You were involved in the entertainment industry as a graphic designer. Please tell us more about that.

As a graphic designer in the film industry, I hold a pivotal role in shaping the visual landscape of various sets. It’s fascinating how graphic storytelling can contribute significantly to the environment and narrative, especially in period pieces. One standout experience was my work on a show set in 1960s Las Vegas, where authenticity was paramount. Designing show posters and casino signage that adhered to the period’s aesthetics allowed viewers to be immersed in that bygone era. Each day presented new and exciting challenges, making it a dynamic and thrilling journey. The thrill of bringing historical authenticity to life through graphic design adds an extra layer of excitement to my creative endeavors, making each project an unforgettable and rewarding experience.

How did you navigate the conversion from the entertainment industry to the world of interior design?

As a designer, I understand the profound impact that environments can have on storytelling. In both film and interior design, the spaces I create are a canvas for conveying the essence of the characters or clients they represent. In film, the backstories of characters are carefully crafted by writers, and it’s the responsibility of the art department, including graphic designers like myself, to bring those stories to life through the environment. Similarly, as an interior designer, your role involves curating spaces that embody the essence of your clients, telling their unique stories through design. Understanding your clients on a personal level is crucial because it allows you to create spaces that truly resonate with their individual tastes, preferences, and values, rather than merely following fleeting trends. By curating environments that authentically represent your clients, you not only create aesthetically pleasing spaces but also spaces that reflect the people who inhabit them, making them feel at home and fostering a deeper connection with their surroundings. The parallel between film and interior design is evident in how both disciplines focus on storytelling through the art of design. My approach of prioritizing your clients’ individuality and creating meaningful, bespoke spaces is what sets me apart as a designer with a genuine dedication to crafting environments that are both beautiful and emotionally resonant.

When and why did you start your eponymous firm, MZC?

Back in 2018, I took the leap and started MZC, a company driven by my passion for design. I wanted to create a place where people from diverse backgrounds and talents could come together to collaborate and bring their creative ideas to life. MZC is like a hub for innovation, where we nurture and support each other’s creative endeavors. It’s been an exciting journey, building a team of like-minded individuals who share the love for design and enjoy working together. With each day that passes, MZC grows into a welcoming space for inspired creativity to thrive.

What does being at the helm of a full service design and creative studio entail?

During this exciting period of growth, I’m fully devoted to my company, putting in considerable time and effort. It’s a path I feel deeply connected to and believe is my true calling. One of my primary goals is to create a strong sense of teamwork. I want every team member to feel heard, appreciated, and valued for their unique talents and contributions. Of course, there have been challenges along the way, like letting go of individuals who don’t share my vision and dealing with time-consuming tasks that fall outside my expertise. As I step into a leadership role, I’ve learned to communicate in a clear and straightforward manner, aiming to bring out the best in my team. Even though I’m primarily an artist, the idea of leading others was initially uncomfortable. However, I’ve embraced my own style of leadership, which has helped me become more confident in this new role.

Your first project as an interior designer was the Red Herring restaurant in downtown Los Angeles. How did that go?

Designing Red Herring proved to be an exhilarating rollercoaster - one that simultaneously terrified me and brought immense fulfillment to my career. Initially, I had no idea of the magnitude of the project I was signing up for. However, the challenges it presented became invaluable lessons that transformed my trajectory in the field. The experience proved to be a profound learning journey, and it reshaped my understanding of design and project management. I emerged from it with a wealth of knowledge that I wouldn’t have gained elsewhere. This endeavor undoubtedly holds a special place in my heart and has left an indelible mark on my professional life.

Please tell us about your work on Funke, the new restaurant by chef Evan Funke in Beverly Hills.

Working with Chef Evan Funke and Kurt Rapport on the branding of Funke Restaurant was truly a dream come true. Having watched Chef Evan’s documentary a year before meeting him, I was captivated by his unwavering passion for Italian traditions and the art of hand-rolled pasta. Collette Nolte, the director of operations at Red Herring, played a crucial role in bringing me into the Funke project. In awe of Chef Evan’s craftsmanship and dedication to authenticity, I enthusiastically suggested incorporating illustrated etchings in the branding. These illustrations beautifully represented Chef Evan, his culinary tools, and the essence of Italy, forming a collection of postcards with Chef’s profile featured on an Italian stamp. The logo, inspired by classic Italian script, added an authentic and charming touch. Being part of this creative journey was beyond incredible, and I feel extremely fortunate to have contributed to such a meaningful project.

How much research goes into an interior design project?

Endless. Coming from my background in film where everything was about research. I bring that into my work as an interior designer. I am not just looking at other interiors for research, I am looking at nature, graphic patterns and historical references to mold an environment to my clients’ desired personal space. One thing that truly fuels my creativity is traveling. My recent trips to England and Spain have been eye-opening experiences, and I can’t wait to bring the unique elements I discovered during those journeys into my current projects. By blending all these diverse influences, I create personalized spaces that perfectly match my clients’ desires. As an interior designer, my ultimate goal is to craft environments that reflect my clients’ tastes and fill them with wonder and harmony drawn from the richness of our world. My creative journey knows no boundaries, and each project is an opportunity for me to deliver something truly exceptional and meaningful. Through continuous exploration, I aim to push the boundaries of design and bring joy to those who experience the spaces I create.

Do you believe in repurposing?

Of course! I am often using what a client already has in a new and different way.

If something really doesn’t work in a space, how do you communicate that without coming across as forceful? Being forceful is not my way ... sometimes I wish I could be. I help guide my clients to see the space as objectively as possible. 99% of the time, they make the right decision on their own.

What to do with heirloom pieces?

Completely dependent on the piece. But most of the time I’m game to use them.

You are working on some exciting projects? A bunch of residential projects that have my creativity soaring with inspiration and delight! https://zajack.com/