SDI Design Partners Announced

Both have played an integral role in shaping the firm’s evolution, contributing meaningfully to its design portfolio, studio culture, and long-term growth.

“Glenn and Mardi are extraordinary leaders whose passion for design and commitment to our clients have helped shape SDI into the firm it is today,” said Joanne Chan, Principal of SDI Design. “Their expanded roles as shareholders reflect their deep contributions to the company’s growth and vision. Glenn’s dedication to quality and execution and Mardi’s creative leadership position us to serve more industries, deliver exceptional work, and continue pushing the boundaries of design.”

Since joining the firm in 2014, Glenn has strengthened the quality of SDI’s work and reinforced the rigor of its design implementation standards. Mardi joined SDI Design in 2024 and quickly distinguished himself through visionary leadership, guiding complex projects with clarity and confidence. Their appointments formalize roles they have long embodied and further strengthen SDI’s ability to deliver thoughtful, human-centered design across workplace, institutional, retail, hospitality, and branded environments.

About SDI Design

SDI Design is an award-winning multi-disciplinary Canadian interior design firm guided by the belief that the best design is possible through customized plans and human-centered thinking. With more than 40 years of experience delivering integrated design services and over 15 million square feet of designed workspace, SDI Design creates experiential environments that reflect culture, inspire connection, and elevate everyday experience. The firm specializes in commercial, workplace, retail, hospitality, and residential design, focusing on strategic solutions that meet client goals and project needs.

Glenn Cheng | BID, ARIDO, BCIN

Principal | Chief Quality Officer

With over 20 years of experience in interior design and architectural delivery, Glenn Cheng plays a central role in shaping SDI Design’s technical excellence and project execution standards. As Permit Signing Officer and Chief Quality Officer, he ensures that every project is delivered with precision, regulatory compliance, and construction rigor. Glenn’s portfolio spans high-profile workplace, institutional, retail, and residential projects across Canada, including MDA Innovation & Research Campus, Ubisoft Toronto, Empire Life Insurance’s national offices, Alectra Utilities’ Head Office, and Northleaf Capital. His leadership bridges concept and construction, guiding multidisciplinary teams through complex coordination, approvals, and implementation. Recognized for his disciplined, methodical approach, Glenn strengthens design integrity at every stage. His commitment to clarity, detail, and quality assurance ensures that ambitious design visions are executed with consistency, reliability, and measurable results.

Mardi Najafi | MDes, BDes, IDC, ACIDO, LEED AP

Principal | Chief Creative Officer | Retail & Hospitality Practice Lead

With over 28 years of international experience in retail, hospitality, and branded environments, Mardi Najafi leads SDI Design’s creative direction with a global perspective and narrative-driven approach. As Chief Creative Officer, he champions design excellence and innovation across the firm’s expanding portfolio. Mardi has directed flagship and national roll-out projects for leading global brands including CHANEL, Adidas, Coca-Cola, La Maison Simons, NIKE Canada, Samsung Innovation Centre, and Scotiabank. His work spans North America and Europe, translating brand identity into immersive, emotionally resonant environments. An award-winning multidisciplinary designer and industry thought leader, Mardi is the only Canadian recipient of the Legion of Honor Award from the International Retail Design Institute. His leadership continues to elevate SDI’s retail and experiential practice through strategic storytelling, mentorship, and creative vision.