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Clever Ep. 218: The Exquisite Love, Magic + Maximalism of Londubh Studio

10.24.24 | By
Clever Ep. 218: The Exquisite Love, Magic + Maximalism of Londubh Studio

Founded by Lisa Donohoe and Brynn Gelbard, Londubh Studio is known for transforming surfaces into intricate canvases that grace residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces, merging traditional decorative techniques with bold, unapologetic artistry. With meticulous attention to detail, they create everything from large-scale murals to furniture using materials like gold leaf, decorative plasters, and metals. Their philosophy centers on pushing artistic boundaries while crafting dynamic, personalized designs. On this episode of Clever with host Amy Devers, Donohoe and Gelbard share the creative origins of Londubh Studio, their maximalist approach, and how they navigate the balance between artistic risk and client collaboration.

Listen:

Two people stand behind a bar adorned with a mirror, artwork, and decorative bottles

Lisa Donohoe and Brynn Gelbard

Donohoe and Gelbard met and fell in love in the queer underbelly scene of San Francisco in 2002, a time before bi-national same-sex marriage was legal. Their diverse community was built on love, curiosity, and celebrating each other’s differences. In an evolution that was equal parts organic maturity and cosmic intervention, Donohoe and Gelbard moved to Los Angeles and founded Londubh Studio, specializing in elaborate and maximalist hand-applied surface designs. Now the duo, often considered the design world’s secret weapon, are translating their wildness, love, magic, and the sacred, through exquisite artistry and pristine craft, into visual celebrations that vibrate with love and emanate joy.

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Two people are painting large blue geometric designs on wooden panels in an art studio

Working on the Golden Globes elevator lounge

Geometric wall mural in various shades of blue, with intricate patterns and shapes, set inside a building with exposed beams and large windows

‘Love’ mural for Tom’ Shoes headquarters

Modern living room with a geometric patterned wall, green sofa, two green armchairs, two wooden stools, side tables, and a dog sitting on the floor.

‘Disco Biscuit’ mural at ROW DTLA

A person stands on a ladder painting an ornate, geometric ceiling with colorful patterns.

Ceiling design for Nicole Hollis, using acrylic and black light-activated paint, 22 and 23kt gold leaf, and textured plaster

Colorful geometric mural on a multi-story building, with palm trees in the foreground.

5 story ‘We are the hearts’ mural, symbolizing love as the building block of all things, in Hollywood

Intricately designed brass sculpture set against a red geometric patterned backdrop with star-shaped elements.

Hand-painted ceiling medallion for Nicole Hollis

Ornate wooden doors with intricate patterns and brass handles in a vibrant red and gold color scheme.

Door details for Nicole Hollis

Vy Tran Yang is a writer and creative strategist who is passionate about discovering thoughtful ways to live well through design. She enjoys sharing ideas that inspire more intentional everyday living. Learn more about her work at vytranyang.com.