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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

‘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

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

Hand-painted ceiling medallion for Nicole Hollis

Door details for Nicole Hollis

As the Senior Contributing Editor, Vy Yang is obsessed with discovering ways to live well + with intention through design. She's probably sharing what she finds over on Instagram stories. You can also find her at vytranyang.com.