A Conversation with Llewellyn Cheng, Founder of LL & Co.

The great exodus from New York City to all points north brought wonderful new residents and also contributed a contingent of talented designers. Case in point is Llewellyn Cheng, founder of LL & Co. architecture + interiors, an outstanding example of this New Wave of design luminaries bringing fresh ideas and capabilities to our area. We sat down with Llewellyn to learn about his recent projects and philosophy for design.

Welcome to Connecticut, Llewellyn! Tell us about LL & Co.

My firm primarily specializes in luxury residential interior design and architecture. Occasionally, we do work on commercial and development projects. Prior to starting my own company, I had many years of experience in luxury hospitality interior design and condo development. That expertise comes in handy for projects with different demands and challenges.

I feel passionate about interior design and appreciate how it can resonate with individuals on a highly personal and visceral level. I also really relish the opportunity in getting to know my clients during the process. So, in my practice, I have been focusing on interior design as of late. I am slightly more picky on architectural projects. Make no mistake, I do enjoy and feel gratified to be able to help individuals, families, and communities to solve dwelling and environmental problems and improve their quality of life.

“A good design should embody an aesthetic that resonates with and inspires the users. It should go beyond merely meeting the spatial and functional challenges.”

What are some of the current design projects you’re working on?

Most of my current interior design projects are in New York City. They are luxury residential interior projects on the Upper East Side, a townhouse on the Upper West Side, and a penthouse apartment in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.  Since I moved to and am living in Ridgefield, I have started to focus on building my clientele base in Fairfield and Westchester counties. Our firm has recently started a project on a 4,000 sq. ft. house in Ridgefield. I can see bringing my design expertise to the residences in this region. Architecturally, I am working with the Ridgefield Historic Society on a special restoration project. It is amazing to be involved in a meaningful project that helps preserve a part of the history in my newly adopted community and the New England region.

Is there a benefit that you are both an architect and an interior designer?

I strongly believe so. These two disciplines inform each other in the design and decision-making process. From a design perspective, the projects can be a lot more cohesive with both disciplines working together. For example, the exterior of the house should relate to the interior, and vice versa. It’s also extremely helpful to have both capabilities during the entire renovation process, from details, technical matters, and project management through execution.

“We take a project from the inception and conceptual stage, to execution, with a serious yet fun design process, explorative and creative methodology, and deep project management skills that can guarantee a successful outcome.”

Is there a particular style or design philosophy you are known for?

I tend to create spaces with a soft modern and contemporary feel where I incorporate genuine materials, textures, intricate details, and lighting to create a sense of warmth and balance, resulting in a luxurious yet comfortable space that goes beyond functionality. I often try to come up with some surprise elements or compositions in the design to create a bespoke feel that resonates with the clients and context of the dwellings or projects, which serves to invigorate and inspire one’s well-being. 

“A well-designed home that can improve one’s quality of life is the ultimate reward.”

I remember a book that I came across years ago called “Living Well is the Best Revenge“. For many of us who work very hard, I think a well-designed home that can improve one’s quality of life is the ultimate reward. It may sound a bit too profound, but I hope to inspire others to note and feel the beauty of spaces, environment, objects, to heighten their senses and appreciate a bit more of the art, the joy, and the meaning of living well… through my work.

What can a client expect when working with you, and how is your approach unique?

I think what I do is a balancing act to incorporate every aspect of a design, while keeping the process fun and engaging our clients in all phases with keen project management skills.  I draw inspiration from many things, such as the clients’ experiences, nature, art, culture, context, and travels. I use a variety of details, finishes, textures, materials, and lighting to sculpt meaningful and bespoke spaces that resonate with our clients.

How do you manage the design process to ensure that a renovation is successful?

A good design process starts with listening carefully and intentionally to the client before the creative process even begins. I pay attention to their desires and style, and then define the design direction, budget, timeline, and so forth.  It’s important to set expectations through different stages of the project. Another important factor is bringing in a good contractor or team that knows my quality and standards that I want to achieve for my clients. Open communication and transparency with the contractor and clients throughout the project are key.

What advice can you give our readers about starting a renovation project?

I think realistic planning and budgeting are important. Renovation or building from the ground up is a very complicated process and it requires a tremendous amount of time and attention, which the knowledge and experience of a professional designer can add to ensure a successful project.

“Anticipate that there will be a surprise or two in the process, so have a contingency plan or reserve a contingency in the budget just in case.”