Position: Head of Interior Design, Envy Interiors
Lives in: Beirut, Lebanon
Why Envy Interiors?
I wanted to create something enviable, by fulfilling the desires of the client. This place is now 2 years old.
What makes it edgy?
All the items you see here are handpicked. Before choosing, I always think: would I put this in my own house? The concept is to provide a wide-range of style, from furniture, to fashionable sunglasses to vintage art.
How would you describe your designs?
Eclectic.
Who is your role model in design?
Philippe Starcke
If you weren’t an interior designer, what would you be?
A pop star. I tried and failed when I was 7 or 8 years old. I think I wasn’t good enough.
Can you tell us about your father’s legacy with Galerie Vanlian?
My father was a self-made man. He had to leave school to make a living. He began about 50 years ago by selling bicycles and then established a store of washing machines. A friend told him he needed a bed made, so my father offered to help, and from then the requests kept pouring in, so he established a furniture gallery.
Life-changing moment?
When I turned 30, I became an adult, and more grounded, though I still live for the moment and the whiff of inspiration.
What are you obsessed with at the moment?
I am now in my green phase. By green, I mean forest green.
What can we expect from you in the future?
I’m never satisfied, always looking for a new challenge. I would like to design cars, boats and planes next. I have ideas. I also have aspirations to make and design my own watch.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The communication with people and creative exchange of ideas, especially when they merge and lead to a unique creation.
What is the worst thing about your job?
Having to mediate between a husband and wife fighting over home design choices.
What is the most expensive project you have carried out?
A sofa studded with diamonds for a Lebanese celebrity.
Most extravagant?
A debauchery room in a Saudi prince’s villa, otherwise known as the “massage room.” It was replete with screens, poles, and beds etcetera.
Whose home interior would you love to see?
Marilyn Monroe’s
What are you most proud of?
Nothing yet.
Who was the most famous person you have designed for?
Haifa Wehbe.
And which well-known personality would you love to work with?
Lady Gaga.
