How To Craft Spacious Elegance

Linda Loutfi, the visionary behind LL Interiors, masterfully bridges the gap between Lebanon and France, infusing her designs with a unique blend of Middle Eastern warmth and European sophistication. Based in Beirut and Paris, LL Interiors is renowned for its ability to transform small spaces into expansive, elegant sanctuaries. In an exclusive interview, Loutfi shared insights into her design philosophy, inspirations, and her admiration for craftsmanship.

Building Client Relationships

At the heart of LL Interiors’ success is the deep, personal relationships Loutfi fosters with her clients. “In every project we deliver, we become friends in the end,” she says. This rapport is not just a byproduct of good business but a foundational element of her design process. “I get inspired from my clients, from their needs, actually. That’s how we start our projects,” Loutfi explains. This client-centered approach ensures that each space she designs is a true reflection of its occupants’ lives and tastes.

Maximizing Small Spaces

Specializing in making small spaces appear larger, LL Interiors employs innovative and smart design solutions. “We think smarter to make spaces bigger, especially in small apartments,” Loutfi notes. Her expertise in this area is particularly relevant in urban settings where space is often at a premium. Through clever use of light, color, and multifunctional furniture, she transforms cramped areas into airy, functional environments.

Global Inspirations

Loutfi’s design aesthetic is informed by global trends and continuous learning. “I follow up trends around the world from exhibitions, visiting new places, meeting other colleagues in the field,” she says. Regular visits to design hubs such as the Milano Salone del Mobile and Maison et Objet in Paris keep her at the forefront of industry developments. These experiences not only inspire her work but also introduce her to new brands and techniques.

Appreciation For Craftsmanship

A recent visit to a Portuguese factory profoundly impacted Loutfi, shifting her perspective on craftsmanship. “Honestly, I wasn’t expecting what I’ve seen here. I felt warmth in your factories, because like all craftsman’s workmanship is physically made. It’s impressive,” she recalls. The intricate textures created by different hammers on metal particularly fascinated her. “The texture on the metals, the hammers, each hammer does a different texture on the metal. It’s really interesting.”

Favorite Pieces and Future Collaborations

Among the many exquisite pieces she encountered, the mirrored buffet stood out. “My preferred unit is the buffet. When you see it, you see like a whole piece. You can’t recognize where’s the drawer and where’s the cabinet. The mirror effect with the gold is very nice, the combination,” Loutfi enthuses. Looking ahead, she is keen to explore e-commerce and introduce her own designs, envisioning a collaboration that leverages the customizable nature of the products she admires. “I hope there will be a collaboration together,” she expresses.

Diverse Project Portfolio

Loutfi’s portfolio is diverse, ranging from residential projects to a unique hotel in Lebanon’s Cedars Reserve at Baruch. “The architecture from outside is the traditional Lebanese building, but from the inside it’s going to be super modern with unique pieces. So this contradiction is nice for visitors,” she explains. Whether designing industrial lofts, zen apartments, or modern contemporary spaces, her versatility allows her to cater to various tastes and styles.

Cultural Connections and Warmth

Loutfi draws a parallel between the warm, hardworking nature of Portuguese and Lebanese people. “I noticed how Portuguese people are warm and hardworking, a bit similar to Lebanese people. I really enjoyed the talent that they have and the traditional way of work,” she observes. Her brief tour of Porto left a lasting impression. “I love the warmth of the people. They are really friendly and the architecture is really nice. I felt the warmth at Porto,” she says, reflecting on her experience. Linda Loutfi’s LL Interiors continues to thrive by combining smart design, client-centric approaches, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship. Her ability to create spacious elegance in small areas and her commitment to personalized design ensures that each project is not just a space but a story—a testament to the lives and experiences of those who inhabit it.

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