Justien Lescouhier creates interiors that make you happy
An interior where every detail is perfect, is good for your mental well-being: this is the vision that inspires interior designer Justien Lescouhier. In every project, whether in the residential, hospitality, retail or office sector - she strives to create a harmonious interior that is completely in tune with how her client lives and works. She places great importance on perfectly worked-out details, clear perspectives and natural materials.
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We meet Justien Lescouhier at a client’s home in Lendelede. This house is home to a large family that has hired Justien to create a greater sense of flexibility in the kitchen and living spaces. 'The family, with four daughters, wanted to enjoy relaxed aperitifs and dinners as a family or with visitors. We integrated a fireplace in the kitchen and consciously opted for a partially separated dining room, but without losing the connection between the kitchen and dining room. The seating area is connected to the other rooms but can also be completely closed off, for moments when they might want a bit more privacy.' The final result is a cosy space on the ground floor where the “flow” is just right.
According to Justien, hiring an interior designer is investing in your well-being. ‘In everyday life, you’re always in a rush. But more and more people are realising that architecture can contribute to your feeling of peace and happiness, whether it is at home or at your workplace.’ For Justien, every project is unique. ‘I want to create interiors that reflect clients’ personalities and lifestyles. That’s why I think it’s important to get to know them really well. So I start by asking a lot of questions. For private individuals, I want to know how they live, what makes them feel at home and what their hobbies are. In the case of retailers, I ask who their target audience is, and for companies, what their ideal workflow is.’
After the initial discussions, a preliminary design is created. ‘The vistas, sight lines, circulation: we start with these as a basis. We create a plan with the broad outlines and then try out different materials to find the best fit. Along with this preliminary design, we also provide realistic 3D visualisations and present some material samples. In this way, clients can make choices comfortably. Once they give the go-ahead, we start preparing the project file. This includes detailed floor plans, views and cross-sections, as well as the technical plans for the techniques and sets of specifications. We request and compare offers, draw up the worksite schedule and coordinate the works, right up to completion. To achieve the intended finesse in the finish, we consider it essential to follow up on everything, down to the smallest detail.’
Well-being
Justien often integrates an AQUALEX designer tap in her designs. ‘This tap fits into my vision of well-being’, she says. ‘Naturally, it’s part of a wider focus on a healthy lifestyle and what’s good for the environment, but it is also about ease of use. You no longer need to lug around bottles and you save time and money. An AQUALEX tap conveniently delivers filtered water to the place where it will be consumed. This doesn’t necessarily have to be the kitchen: for example, in an apartment at the seaside, we’re installing a Fine Touch tap right next to the seating area. You can refill your glass while you’re sitting down. This will automatically make the client drink more water.’
Justien is very positive about the collaboration with AQUALEX. ‘I have a fixed contact person. Olivia is well-versed in the technical aspects and also has a sense of the aesthetics. She understands clients well. The fact that she likes to help think things out means we can work together as a creative team, which is a big plus point for me as an interior designer.’ AQUALEX taps are available in many different finishes, which is also a definite asset. ‘For this client, we chose a bronze finish. So the tap exudes character and luxury but also feels warm and homey. AQUALEX always provides me with large samples, so that I can show clients how the tap will look in their interiors. This, too, is a great added value’, she concludes.
Photography: FORT 07/Capone, Bert Demasure
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