Decorating Den Interiors

For more than 30 years, the Shivers Design Team at Decorating Den Interiors in Nixa has been transforming homes and businesses across the Ozarks. From simple updates to new builds, the award-winning team has earned a reputation for creating spaces that are both functional and beautiful.

But step behind the curtain, and you’ll find a workplace that thrives on flexibility, creativity and genuine care for clients and employees alike.

Client-Centered Designs

Every project at Decorating Den begins with an in-home or office consultation. Designers tour the space, discuss customer priorities and establish a budget before preparing a cohesive design plan. Whether it’s custom window treatments, a table to complement grandmother’s antique chairs or a full home makeover, the team ensures every detail feels intentional.

“We want each project to look as though it was designed all at once, even if we’re working with a treasured rug or family heirloom,” says Interior Designer Heather Malachowski. “Our goal is always to help people feel good in their space.”

With more than 300 Decorating Den locations across North America, manufacturers treat the company as a single, major client. That gives franchisees, including the Nixa team, the kind of buying power that exceeds most independent designers. They source furniture, flooring, lighting and accessories from reputable manufacturers and oversee the whole process from delivery to installation. It’s a seamless and stress-free experience that keeps clients coming back.

A Culture of Flexibility and Growth

Malachowski joined Decorating Den 17 years ago as an assistant to franchise founder Nola Shivers. She soon became a designer in her own right and today creates award-winning designs across residential and commercial spaces.

“When I got married and started a family, the leadership was always supportive,” Malachowski recalls. “I could attend school events and family milestones while still building my career. That flexibility makes a huge difference.”

Studio and Brand Manager Maggie Kicklighter’s journey is equally inspiring. After joining the team in 2013, she briefly stepped away to become a stay-at-home mom. She returned a short time later and today manages studio operations and marketing. “Every day is different, and we’re constantly learning,” she says.

Kicklighter especially values the company’s advanced training programs. Decorating Den franchisees have access to extensive professional development resources, ranging from AI-powered business tools to emerging design trends.

“It keeps us on the cutting edge while helping us serve clients better,” she explains.

Teamwork Yields Big Results

The supportive, family-like culture at Decorating Den extends beyond the studio. Designers collaborate closely, celebrate each other’s wins and share knowledge gained from continuous training. The results speak for themselves: the team has consistently ranked among the company’s top 10 franchises for sales over the past 20 years, outperforming many larger metropolitan markets.

“We’ve all worked together for years, so it feels like family,” Kicklighter says. “That sense of trust and support carries through to the way we care for our clients.”

At Decorating Den Interiors in Nixa, every project reflects the team’s core belief: great design should make life better. And in the process, they’ve built not just a successful business, but a truly great place to work.