1. Can you tell us more about your Design Firm?
We are an interior design studio with over five decades of combined experience, specializing in high-end residential and commercial projects, from renovations to new construction. At Les Coupables, our unified vision is to create unique spaces that leave a lasting impression.
What truly sets us apart is our joy-driven approach—because for us, joy is the key to success. We’ve cultivated a work environment that encourages collaboration, creativity, and bold thinking, while always infusing a touch of humor into everything we do.
Our team thrives on synergy. Each designer brings unique ideas, expertise, and passion, and it’s through this collective energy that we’re able to push the boundaries of design. We believe the best creativity comes from working together, and this is the foundation of all our projects.
Our ultimate goal is to transform your spaces with boldness, precision, and a touch of ingenuity—all while ensuring the journey is as inspiring as the final result.
2. What does “design” mean to you?
For us, design is more than a craft—it’s a way of life. Everything inspires us: details, colors, textures… even in moments of rest, creativity is always present. Each project is an opportunity to spark emotion, turn a dream into reality, and craft an unforgettable experience. Design is the strength of a united team. Design is us, together.
3. Can you describe your design style and its main characteristics?
At Les Coupables, we’re not defined by a single design style, and that’s exactly what makes us unique. Each project is a blank canvas, giving us the freedom to fully adapt to our clients’ needs and dreams. This approach allows us to remain incredibly flexible and push the boundaries of creativity.
Our signature lies in our ability to seamlessly blend materials, textures, and styles with boldness and harmony. We pay meticulous attention to details and lighting, giving our projects a distinctive and memorable character. Our goal is always to craft spaces that are one-of-a-kind, perfectly reflecting the identity of those who live in or interact with them.
4. As the winner of the FoodInSpace Design Awards 2024, what does receiving this award mean to you, your company and your team?
Receiving this award is an incredible recognition for our entire team. It celebrates our passion, dedication, and the indispensable collaboration of everyone involved. This project challenged us to push boundaries, and this award highlights the hard work and creativity of our team.
5. What was the biggest challenge for your winning project/projects?
The main challenge of this project was reimagining the initial layout. The restaurant’s entrance is inside a large building with no direct street visibility, and the 6,300-square-foot space is windowed on three sides. We needed to design a layout that was not only functional and fluid but also visually flawless. Each area had to be carefully considered to maximize natural light while creating a harmonious and inviting atmosphere. It felt like a real game of Tetris, where every element—walls, windows, flow, and furniture—had to fit together perfectly to deliver a cohesive and elegant result.
The conceptual direction set by Jacques Gaspo was both a bold challenge and a true gift for our team. Entirely unconventional, it pushed us to explore fresh ideas, break norms, and exceed our limits. The unique choices of colors, textures, and lighting presented stimulating challenges that fueled our creativity, turning this journey into an incredibly rewarding and exciting experience.
6. In an increasingly global world, how do you balance local identity with international trends in your design work?
We dare to challenge conventions. While we keep a close eye on both international and local trends, our approach is to push the boundaries of creativity. We like to say that every project is a “next-level” adventure. Our strength lies in the energy and ingenuity of our team, which consistently strives to create bold, distinctive projects.
7. Are there any other topics you would like to talk about that were not addressed in these questions?
We’d like to emphasize that our projects are, above all, the result of teamwork. Every member of our team brings their own ideas, vision, and passion, and it’s this collective effort that makes each project truly special.
Our name, Les Coupables, which translates to The Guilty Ones, reflects our playful philosophy—we proudly admit to being “guilty” of creating bold, unique designs that leave a lasting impression. We believe that collaboration is the foundation of creativity, and it’s the driving force behind everything we do.
Thank you for the interview!
