Marle women
olivia Moon
Photography Greta van der Star
Marle women
Marle Women is a series that delves into the lives of inspiring women. Through thoughtful and intimate conversations, we uncover the unique journeys and perspectives that shape their stories.
In this edition, we speak with Olivia Moon, founder and CEO of Nodi. A mother and lifelong creative, Olivia’s work moves fluidly between business, design and craft. From her formative years in Milan to time spent in India working closely with artisans, she reflects on the places and moments that continue to anchor and guide her path.
To start, how would you describe yourself and the work you do today?
My name is Olivia Moon. I have a large family (six children and two dogs) and I’m the founder and CEO of Nodi, an interior studio creating handwoven rugs and carpets from natural fibres.
You’ve lived and travelled widely. Was there a place that had a lasting influence on how you think about design or beauty?
Milan, without question. I moved there when I was nineteen and lived there for four years. That time taught me about style and exposed me to true design. I was deeply charmed by the Italians’ sense of style and their way of life, and I’m certain Nodi would not exist without that experience.
Is there an object in your home that you treasure particularly, and why?
There are too many to name, but one of the most treasured is a quilt my grandmother made for me when I was fifteen. She designed it herself and sewed the entire piece by hand.
What has building Nodi taught you about yourself?
That I can do what I put my mind to, and that I shouldn’t let myself get in the way of that.
Which part of your role has surprised you the most - something you didn’t anticipate enjoying?
The strategic side of the business. It was completely new to me when I started, but it’s now one of the areas I see as most important. I really enjoy looking at an opportunity that doesn’t yet exist, building a plan, and bringing it to life. Seeing all the elements come together is really rewarding.
You lead Nodi’s creative direction, from collections to campaigns. Where do you feel most engaged in that process?
Being in India, working with artisans on new designs. Working with colour and texture is my happy place, and it’s where Nodi really began.
Looking at Nodi now, what are you most proud of?
This year we launched our pure wool, handwoven carpet range. It was one of the biggest and most challenging projects we’ve undertaken as a business. I feel so incredibly proud that, together with my amazing team, we’ve brought a sense of craft, elegance and design to what is traditionally a very conservative product category.
Has motherhood shaped what you value in a home, or the way you think about materials?
I’ve always valued natural and handwoven materials, well before having children. I guess becoming a mother has reaffirmed their importance, particularly when you spend so much time on the floor.
How do you sustain your creativity?
Through travel, books, spending time in my garden, which is full of wildflowers, and working alongside other creative people I admire.
What does a morning look like in your world right now?
Cuddles in bed with the children and our dog, followed by a cup of tea, a short meditation, and then the rush of getting everyone out the door on time.
Finally, what feels most important to you right now, creatively or personally?
Life feels very fast and very full in this chapter. I’m trying to balance that by creating enough time and space for us to slow down as a family, to simply be, rather than always doing.
