About Me
Hi, I’m Mallory Coates. Moving from from Chicago, IL, I recently made Abu Dhabi, UAE my home. With a background in product sourcing and management, my focus has shifted towards the world of interior design products and furniture.
Having just returned from a month in France, I am actively building my portfolio of furniture vendors and designers. Through this journey, I am documenting my experiences on this website, sharing my photography, insights on design trends, my relationships with flea market vendors, and the allure of 20th-century furniture.
I began my journey into design in my home state of Tennessee, where my passion blossomed during Sunday visits to local antique malls with my mother. Over the years, I’ve honed my craft by exploring estate sales and vintage home shops, delving into the intricacies of specific designers and styles. My dedication even brought me to Copenhagen, where I had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the masterpieces of my favorite designers. These experiences have led me to where I am today: conducting extensive research on 20th-century furniture and forging connections with some of the most talented collectors, vendors, and designers worldwide.
Design isn’t just a profession for me; it’s a lifelong fascination. I’m excited to leverage my expertise in product sourcing and management to contribute meaningfully to the interior design industry in the UAE.
Product Sourcing and Management
My background in category management began in Washington, DC at a local-focused, low-footprint, specialty grocery market. I started as a receiver, checking in, stocking, and organizing inventory. I then moved into a buying position managing over 500 products and maintaining relationships with our vendors.
The next chapter led me to Chicago, where I joined the ranks of the fastest-growing medical supplies company globally, boasting an impressive annual revenue exceeding 23 billion dollars. It was within this dynamic environment that I refined my expertise in vendor negotiation, global sourcing, quality engineering, and category strategy and growth. Focusing my efforts on product procurement, I excelled in identifying market gaps and spearheading the development of custom product categories to address these needs.
Today
I find myself at an exciting crossroads, having embarked on a transformative journey to the UAE. This vibrant country serves as the epicenter of innovation and growth in the realm of interior design products, offering a dynamic landscape brimming with opportunities. My decision to relocate stems from a deep-seated desire to leverage my diverse skill set and passion for design within this burgeoning market.
I am genuinely thrilled to embark on this new chapter, where I can seamlessly merge my professional acumen with my lifelong passion for 20th-century design. My eagerness to immerse myself in this enriching journey, coupled with my unwavering dedication to hard work, propels me forward with boundless enthusiasm. I am wholeheartedly committed to contributing my talents and expertise to the vibrancy of the UAE’s design landscape, where creativity knows no bounds, and possibilities are limitless.
783 Park 