- Client Portrait Series - Luc Gautier
In this portrait, Luc shares how he reimagined his Lisbon home with the help of Studio Bisson, transforming a once-closed and compartmentalized apartment into a space filled with light, openness, and calm. Guided by a vision of simplicity and subtle elegance, Luc’s experience is a beautiful reminder that meaningful design is rarely straightforward — but always deeply rewarding.
Our client Luc - Photos courtesy of Studio Bisson
1. Can you introduce yourself and tell us what brought you to Lisbon?
Hello, my name is Luc. I’ve arrived in Lisbon over 20 years ago with a friend who was moving here for professional reasons. I’ve never left and since then I have called Lisbon my Home.
2. Can you describe the vision or goals you had for your home before starting this project?
What I initially loved about this place was its unique location - a beautiful terrace on the interior side and street-facing on the other. The apartment is central without sacrificing the need I had for greenery and outdoor space. The vision I had for the apartment was to open it and really maximise the natural light.
Master Bathroom - Photos courtesy of Studio Bisson
3. How did you envision your ideal living space, and how did that evolve throughout the design process?
What I wanted was just a simple style with a few beautiful touches that would make the space feel personal and original.
4. What specific challenges or requirements did you have for the design of your home?
It was very important to me to give back a sense of space and air to an apartment that was originally made up of small, closed-off rooms.
The Kitchen - Photos courtesy of Studio Bisson
5. Why did you choose to work with Studio Bisson?
I was really impressed by a project you did for a client who, funnily enough, had bought one of my former apartments. Seeing how you transformed the space inspired me and helped shape some of my own design decisions.
Details - Photo courtesy of Studio Bisson
6. Can you share a bit about your lifestyle and how that influenced the design choices for your home?
I’m a very calm person, and I enjoy quiet places that convey a sense of tranquility. I think this naturally led to an apartment that feels very peaceful, with natural tones and materials.
7. Are there any specific design choices or details that hold special significance for you?
Honestly, what made the difference for me in this experience is that I learned to let others make choises. I think that the final result is very representative of me, but what I appreciated the most was being able to completely trust someone else for its realization.
The Terrace - Photos courtesy of Studio Bisson
8. What advice would you give to others considering a similar home renovation or design project?
I’d say: it’s never a linear or entirely predictable process. Always be prepared for surprises!
9. Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently or any lessons learned from the experience?
Well, we did have a bit of an adventure with the kitchen mirror! But despite the practical issues and the struggle of getting it in the apartment through a typical super narrow Lisbon staircase, I actually love how it gives character to the whole space.
______________________________
