IN BLOOM WITH METAFLORA

Marisa Competello didn’t set out to be a florist. The founder of Metaflora spent a decade in fashion before making an instinctive leap—one driven by the need for change and the desire to create something of her own. Her work sits at the intersection of discipline and spontaneity, shaped as much by her background in dance as her eye for design. Minimal yet unexpected, precise yet intuitive, her arrangements feel less like still lifes and more like movement captured in time. For our latest NYC shoot, she interpreted the Modernist collection through flowers, translating form and feeling into sculptural compositions. Here, she shares how her influences converge to form a language of flowers that is distinctly her own.

Tell us a little more about your work, where did it all begin?

I was working in fashion for a decade and was craving a change and wanted to have something of my own. I distinctively decided to pursue flowers as my next project.

Describe your style in three words…

Classic. Minimal. Provocative.

What inspires you?

Dance plays a huge part in terms of inspiration for me as I’ve danced my whole life. Studying lines and form for that long has informed my work and design.

You are renowned for your distinctively stylish, elegant and sculptural flora designs—does this translate to your interiors? Do you see a connection between the worlds of floristry and interior design?

They are most definitely related in my mind and are undoubtedly complimentary. My florals and interiors are similar in terms of minimalism and a muted palette.

What does 'home' mean to you?

As a cancerian woman home is so important to me. It’s a sanctuary of stillness and peaceful domesticity.

Your most treasured object, artwork or design piece?

I collect vintage furniture and objects and they are all special with a story behind sourcing each one. Equally valued.

In Marisa’s NYC home, poetic tulips meet George Nakashima chairs.

Your floral arrangements feel like art—how do you approach composition and balance in your work?

It’s really an intuitive process for me and it also is a beautiful combination of my experiences as a dancer and stylist. Utilizing my discerning eye, contemplating textures and colors and thinking about movement and form.

Is there a flower or plant you always come back to?

It’s every changing depending on the season.

How does living in NYC influence your creative process?

I’m surrounded by other friends and people creating and pursuing creative paths. It keeps me motivated and curious.

If your home had a soundtrack, what would be on it?

Brian Eno, Philip Glass and classic rock with some Lana Del Rey.