Interior Design Pioneer, Mary-Jane Ahunna, Redefining Nigerian Spaces

In a rapidly evolving design landscape where aesthetics and functionality are increasingly intertwined, Nova Interior Limited is emerging as a leader in Nigeria’s interior design industry. At the helm is Mary-Jane Ahunna, Founder and Lead Creative Director, whose innovative approach is influencing how homes and commercial spaces are conceived across the country.

Based in Abuja, Nova Interior Limited specializes in creating interiors that go beyond visual appeal, incorporating elements of identity, culture, and emotional resonance.

Ahunna’s design philosophy prioritizes intention and storytelling in every project.

“I don’t just design rooms, I design feelings,” Ahunna stated in a recent interview. “Every detail must tell a story and contribute to a sense of meaning and belonging.”

Ahunna’s interest in design began in childhood, with an early habit of rearranging furniture and sketching room layouts. That passion later developed into formal education, years of professional experience, and eventually the establishment of Nova Interior Limited. The company now offers full-service design solutions, ranging from high-end residences to brand-aligned commercial environments.

Over the years, Nova Interior Limited has built a strong reputation for quality, elegance, and innovation. Eschewing fleeting trends, Ahunna has cultivated a distinct style characterized by spatial clarity, cultural relevance, and what she describes as “luxurious restraint.”

Projects in the firm’s portfolio include corporate lounges, private offices, hospitality venues, and elite residential properties. Each design reflects a careful balance between global design principles and local cultural elements. This approach has positioned Nova Interior Limited as a key player in redefining contemporary African interior design.

Beyond her work with clients,Ahunna is an advocate for professional development within the industry. Through internships, coaching sessions, and design masterclasses hosted by Nova Interior Limited, she is helping train the next generation of Nigerian designers.

“We have incredible talent in this country,” she said. “But talent needs structure. Without mentorship and industry standards, the ecosystem can’t grow. I’m committed to helping change that.”

Ahunna is also preparing to launch a line of Nigerian-inspired décor pieces and is working on a coffee table book documenting the evolution of African interior aesthetics.

With Abuja evolving into a hub for innovation and lifestyle development, Nova Interior Limited is positioning itself at the center of this transformation. Onuegbu’s long-term vision is to elevate African interior design on the global stage—not as a passing trend, but as a refined and enduring expression of cultural identity.

As the sector continues to mature, industry observers view Nova Interior Limited as a benchmark for excellence, innovation, and mentorship within the design community.