Across the design and development industries, too much of the built environment falls into predictable patterns: cookie-cutter “white box” spaces, trend-driven designs, and construction practices that prioritize speed and cost over quality and character. Historic buildings are often torn down rather than thoughtfully restored, while sustainability is treated as a costly afterthought. The result is spaces that may look current but quickly date, fail to inspire, and leave lasting ecological and financial costs.
LMNTL was created to challenge this default. We believe the spaces we inhabit should express character and care – elevating daily life while aligning our buildings and communities with nature and natural cycles. Done well, design can ground us, energize us, and connect us more deeply with place and purpose.
This belief forms the foundation of our practice and guides how we collaborate with clients: to create soulful, welcoming, and healthy spaces that truly stand the test of time.
LMNTL PRINCIPLES
Our principles are Elemental to how we think, design, and build. They aren’t just services we offer — they’re the values we bring to every project, informing each decision from concept through completion.
① CREATIVITY
The best design balances bold expression with deep respect for context. We embrace daring ideas, highlight the character of each property, and craft spaces that are both functional and distinctive.
In practice, this can mean developing custom built-ins that make the most of available space, using unconventional materials or bold colors to bring depth and character, and incorporating statement elements such as patterned wallpaper, unique artwork, or vintage pieces. We look for opportunities to elevate spaces through creative choices that are purposeful, not decorative.
② DURABILITY
Quality is in the details. Through precision, craftsmanship, and timeless material choices, we create spaces built to last — beautiful, livable, and resistant to short-lived trends.
In practice, this can mean prioritizing durable natural materials like solid wood, stone, and plaster; selecting finishes that age well; and designing details that can be easily maintained or repaired over time. We focus on robust construction methods, well-made hardware, and flexible layouts that adapt to changing needs — investments that pay off in longevity and performance.
③ HEALTH
We spend close to 90% of our time indoors. By maximizing natural light, improving air quality, and integrating healthy materials and plants, we create environments that support both comfort and wellbeing.
In practice, this means selecting low- or no-VOC finishes, ensuring proper ventilation and filtration, and designing for ample daylight and views. We incorporate biophilic elements such as natural textures and greenery, and consider factors like acoustics and thermal comfort from the outset.
④ SUSTAINABILITY
At LMNTL, sustainability is more than a “nice to have” — it’s a foundation for long-term resilience, lower operating costs, and reduced environmental impact.
In practice, this means improving building performance through better insulation and airtightness, integrating efficient systems and fixtures, selecting low-carbon materials, and utilizing renewable energy where possible. We look for opportunities to reuse and adapt existing structures, reduce waste during construction, and design for future flexibility. When appropriate, we support projects in meeting green building standards such as LEED, WELL, the Living Building Challenge, or local high-performance codes.
LEADERSHIP
