Leila Ahmedova
With a background in computer science and having studied visual art and design as a hobby in Finland, Leila Ahmedova decided to move to Ireland to set up her own company, Nordic Living, four years ago.

“My hobby I suppose led to my idea of starting a business that promotes and sells Scandinavian designs. When I moved to Ireland I found the perfect niche area that would suit my plans. This was further compounded by the fact when I compared Dublin to other, larger European cities, where you can find many beautiful showrooms selling design objects, well, I felt this was something the city lacked.”

Ahmedova quickly got her plan into action and started talking to Scandinavian manufacturers while at the same time looking for a premises to showcase all her imports – which she found in Blackrock, Co. Dublin.

Next step was getting capital together to fund her business plans. She was put in touch with the Terenure Enterprise Centre. “They were very helpful, and we met on several occasions to discuss the business. Together we shaped up the business plan and sent it to First Step, who approved my loan application – that was the beginning for me.”

Ahmedova opened her doors to business in October 2005 and employs another person on a part-time basis. “I opened a shop on Main Street in Blackrock, selling small design objects, furniture, lamps, textiles and rugs initially. As competition grew I made the decision to specialise in furniture and lights and drop the accessories. So from the beginning of this year my showroom was converted into a furniture showroom.”

“At the moment 50 per cent of my sales come from architects and interior designers, that commission our furniture for public spaces. This year we have supplied several hotels and restaurants, as well as numerous offices. My plan is to work mainly with architects and designers and supply commercial furniture for various projects.

Eventually I’d like to convert the shop into a studio, like a meeting space, to be used for meetings and be open by appointment only. This will allow me to reduce overheads and carry almost no stock and get larger contracts.”

NordicLiving,
57 Main Street,
Blackrock,
Co. Dublin
Tel: +353 1 288 6680
www.nordicliving.ie