Mardi NAJAFI

Mardi Najafi is an award-winning, multidisciplinary designer with over 30 years of experience shaping transformative retail and branded environments worldwide. Known for creating immersive, emotionally resonant spaces, his work seamlessly blends design excellence, cultural relevance, and commercial strategy.

Mardi has led high-profile projects for globally recognized brands including Adidas, Barry Callebaut, Chanel, Coca-Cola, Nike, Mattel, Versace, and Virgin Mobile, delivering environments that span from bespoke boutiques to large-scale flagship experiences. His portfolio extends across major global cities such as Paris, New York, and Toronto, consistently setting new benchmarks in retail and experiential design.

He currently serves as Principal, Chief Creative Officer, and Retail & Hospitality Practice Lead at SDI Design, where he continues to push creative boundaries and redefine how brands connect with people through space.

A passionate advocate for education and mentorship, Mardi is an accomplished speaker, educator, and industry leader. He has served two terms as President of the Retail Design Institute Canada, contributes to professional advisory committees, and lectures at leading design institutions. In recognition of his impact on the industry, he became the first Canadian inducted into the Retail Design Institute’s prestigious Legions of Honor in 2023.

Driven by a belief in the power of design to elevate the human experience, Mardi’s work reflects a lifelong commitment to innovation, leadership, and meaningful design.