Words and Photography by Nadine Wilmanns

Laurence Katz

In conversation with Interior Designer Laurence Katz, founder of Elemental Studio in London

It’s been raining all morning, but when I cycle to Brown’s Restaurant near Covent Garden, the sun breaks through. I’m meeting Laurence Katz, Interior Designer and founder of Elemental Studio in London.

Originally from France, Laurence has been living in London for 23 years. After she had her first daughter, she could have gone back to her career in business and marketing, but she had long been yearning to do something creative. So, she took the chance and retrained as an Interior Designer. “During my design education, my second child came along.” Laurence started working for other designers. After reworking her own house, her friends asked her to take on residential projects. “In 2016, I launched my business Elemental Studio as a Christmas present.”

We find a place in the sun by the window of the pretty restaurant. There are greens everywhere – plants, green walls, and window frames – set against the rich turquoise of the chairs.

Laurence works a lot with colours. When you look at her room designs, it’s the colours that strike you first. “I love colours,” she says. “As I met more clients and briefs, I realized I was enjoying working with colours more than with neutrals. Every project feels fresh and exciting, and I always start from scratch, diving into the personality of my clients to make every design unique.”

She pauses. “Also, I’ve read how colours have a different impact on people. And it is true: when I walk into a colourful room, I find it uplifting, and when I leave, I find the world a better place. Colours have a positive vibe and impact my mood a lot.”

“What would be your best compliment for your work, Laurence?”

“One of the best compliments I have received is that I master the combination of colours, textures, and patterns.”

“Ah yes, that is the hardest”, I say.

“I spend a lot of time connecting art and colours.” Laurence shows me photos of an impressive stall at a trade show she took part in: “I implemented art like paintings, ceramics, rugs, textiles, bespoke pieces, and lighting. I even brought in the sound of birds, which everyone found so relaxing. You felt as if you were in a garden, though it was indoors. That’s the atmosphere I strive for.”

The name of her business, Elemental Studio, is based on this intention: “I wanted a wholesome name. Elemental Studio incorporates the four elements and focuses on nature. Nature is the source of my inspiration, full of interesting shapes—nothing is straight except for the horizon. I like to use natural materials like wood and fabrics, sourcing them sustainably and from UK manufacturers.”

As we leave, it has started to rain again – in fact, it’s pouring. Lucky us to have enjoyed the sun on our faces and a shower of colour in green and turquoise.

You can find more about Laurence here: www.elementalstudio.co.uk