In a defining moment for the renowned interior design agency, DesignLSM has unveiled its brand evolution as DLSM Studio. This transformation reflects a new generation, as Holly Hallam and Rachel Pratt put their mark in the sand with the studio’s strong strategic approach to crafting commercially successful, striking brands and environments, offering strategy, branding, and interior design services.
Originally founded in 1988 by Steve La Bouchardière and Simon McCarthy, the studio has built a legacy of delivering award-winning hospitality and lifestyle spaces over the past 37 years. The name ‘LSM’— a homage to the two men (La Bouchardière, Steve/Simon, McCarthy) — remains integral to the brand’s DNA, ensuring the heritage and pioneering spirit of the founders and agency continue to be celebrated.
Now led by Co-Owners Holly and Rachel, who celebrate 10 and 16 years in the business respectively, the agency’s rebrand underscores the team’s commitment to crafting distinctive, experience-led environments that extend beyond the aesthetics.
As masters of creativity and curiosity, DLSM Studio bring a wealth of knowledge to deliver spaces that are not only strikingly beautiful, but that are operationally effective, commercially driven and most of all, memorable for its guests.
“Our evolution into DLSM Studio marks an exciting new chapter, cementing our place within luxury hospitality while staying true to our values of designing spaces that appeal to the senses, enhancing the physical and mental wellbeing of its users whilst creating an emotional engagement,” said Holly Hallam, Co-Owner. “We remain deeply connected to the incredible legacy built by Steve and Simon, and we are proud to continue shaping compelling and inspiring environments for our clients worldwide.”
With a growing presence in the Middle East and international markets, DLSM Studio has been successful in winning five-star luxury hotel projects and is currently working with brands including InterContinental Doha (Qatar), Cheval Maison, and Curio by Hilton Collection. Whilst the studio’s head office remains firmly rooted in Brighton, UK, their expanding remote team based in the UAE allows to better serve its overseas clientele with an on-the-ground presence.
DLSM Studio continues to span across hospitality, leisure and lifestyle, collaborating on exciting F&B concepts and hotels, whilst also delivering its first luxury nursing home last year.
With an extremely diverse portfolio, DLSM Studio proudly tailors its approach to each client’s unique vision. Rather than adhering to a signature studio style, they skilfully create bespoke designs that authentically reflect the true DNA of their clients’ concepts, ensuring each project is distinctive and aligned with its brand identity.
The evolution of the studio also comes at a time of peak industry recognition for the agency, with a record number of accolades over the past two years reflecting its creative excellence and strategic approach to hospitality design.
“The new identity is more than just a change in name; it reflects the strength of our studio today and the direction we are heading,” added Rachel Pratt, Co-Owner. “DLSM Studio represents a dynamic, forward-thinking design practice that crafts immersive and luxury spaces with purpose and impact. Holly and I thank our peers and clients for their continued support as we embark on this new chapter. We look forward to shaping the future of design, together.”
