Interview • Portraits
Spotlight on Delphine Leon Bellancourt: My Journey in Pioneering the Future of Interior Design
Delphine Leon Bellancourt, Director at The Live Design Project shares about her journey in the field of interior design
What was the starting point of your journey ?
My journey began with a master’s degree in Interior Design & Design of Furniture from the renowned Ecole Camondo in Paris. Aware of the competitive job market in France, I made a bold decision right after my studies — to move overseas. This leap took me to Singapore, a place burgeoning with opportunities yet lacking the creative infusion it needed at the time.
How did you transition from studying in Paris to working overseas?
Upon arriving in Singapore, I found a job within just three days, joining a design company that specialized in office interiors. While I thrived in creating functional and stylish office spaces, my passion for design was not confined to just one area. I wanted to explore and expand my expertise across different sectors.
What motivated you to establish your own company, D'apres Nous, after gaining experience in Singapore?
After four years of invaluable experience, I took a significant step in my career by establishing my own company, D'apres Nous. My firm embraced all facets of interior design, working on residential, workplace, hotel, retail, and F&B projects. We expanded our reach beyond Singapore, offering design and build as well as consultancy services across Asia and Europe. Working with prestigious clients like Hermes, Chopard, and Club Med was both a privilege and a testament to our success.
What were some of the challenges you faced?
I witnessed significant changes in our ecosystem. The increasing competition from architects and contractors, and the challenges of working with junior designers who were creative yet lacked operational skills, made me rethink our service model. Additionally, frequent complaints about the high costs of interior design services indicated a growing disconnect with market needs.
How did you utilize the downtime during the COVID-19 pandemic to innovate?
When the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to our usual activities, I used this time to enroll in a nine-month innovation course. My objective was clear: to disrupt the interior design industry and make it more accessible. The challenges of hiring in Singapore during this period also made me question the traditional work boundaries, further fueling my drive for change.
Can you explain the concept behind The Live Design Project and its objectives?
This period of reflection and learning culminated in the creation of www.thelivedesignproject.com, a platform aimed at democratizing interior design. The platform connects global clients with a pool of worldwide junior interior designers who, under the mentorship of experienced professionals, work on real projects. This not only helps juniors build their portfolios and gain practical experience but also provides clients with affordable and innovative design solutions.
What is the social impact that The Live Design Project brings to the industry?
Our model is a virtuous circle where everyone benefits. Juniors develop their skills, build their portfolio and have the chance to earn by winning projects. Mentors find potential employees and give back to the community by sharing their knowledge. Clients receive diverse, creative proposals at a fraction of the usual cost.
What is the mission of your company, and how do you aim to achieve it?
Our mission is to make interior design training accessible, equitable, and sustainable. We are committed to preparing the next generation of designers to thrive in a technology-driven world, ensuring that quality design is not a privilege of the few but a standard accessible to many.
What lessons have you learned from your journey from Paris to Singapore and beyond?
Reflecting on my journey from Paris to Singapore and beyond, I am reminded of the power of innovation and determination in overcoming challenges and realizing one's vision. My story is a testament to the idea that with creativity and resilience, anyone can redefine an industry and inspire a future where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Why did I start TLDP?
Throughout my career, I recognized the need for fairness in the interior design industry. This realization led me to establish TLDP, a platform dedicated to making design accessible for all.
Challenges and Growth:
I understand the demanding nature of the profession, which led me to transition to TLDP. This shift allowed me to explore alternative methods of working while prioritizing personal well-being and professional growth.
Inspiration:
I draw inspiration from design luminaries like Christian Liaigre and Tadao Ando, admiring their elegance, sophistication, and commitment to quality materials.
Excitement for the Industry:
What excites me the most about my industry is its ever-evolving nature, where each project presents unique opportunities for improvement.
Vision and Personal Motto:
My motto revolves around designing with people in mind, putting client needs and preferences at the forefront of her work.
Do you have any words of advice for other persons who are starting their business/ starting to pursue their dream?
First and foremost, starting a business or pursuing your dream requires a significant investment of time and energy. However, the rewards can be incredibly fulfilling. When your clients express their enjoyment of your design and the happiness it brings them, it becomes a truly rewarding experience. Particularly when clients realize that they couldn’t have achieved that level of design on their own, it reinforces the value I bring and makes me feel appreciated as well.
When starting a business, it can be beneficial to begin small, allowing yourself to learn quickly from any failures or setbacks you encounter. Embrace the permission to dream and follow your aspirations. Many people are afraid of failing, but it’s important to recognize that mistakes and challenges are part of the journey. Reflecting on my own experiences, I have learned invaluable lessons through trial and error that have shaped me into the entrepreneur I am today.
Surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial. Acknowledge that you can’t excel in every aspect of your business, and seek out individuals who complement your weaknesses. Recognize that successes come from the sum of the collective’s strengths. Building a supportive network is crucial during your entrepreneurial journey. It’s important to surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your goals and values. However, it’s equally important to seek out those who may challenge you and offer different perspectives. This diverse network can provide valuable guidance and inspiration as you navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.
Lastly, draw inspiration from the best in your field. Study their work, learn from their achievements, and allow their successes to fuel your own aspirations.
Surround yourself with sources of inspiration, whether it’s through books, online platforms, or attending industry events. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow, constantly pushing yourself to reach new heights.
Starting a business or pursuing your dream is like climbing a mountain. Don’t get caught up in looking at the peak; instead, concentrate on navigating the path directly in front of you. Take one step at a time, overcome the obstacles along the way, and keep pushing forward. This will be filled with both challenges and triumphs. Stay focused, be resilient, and never lose sight of your passion and drive. You have the ability to make a meaningful impact and achieve incredible things.
Contact: Delphine Leon Bellancourt
