From a thriving 15-year marketing career to launching her own design studio during the pandemic, Nathalie Khouri, founder of RALEE, has carved out a bold new space in the world of contemporary interior design. Based in Dubai and deeply influenced by her Lebanese roots, Nathalie brings a warm, intuitive approach to her practice, blending understated luxury, Feng Shui interior design principles, and storytelling into every project. Whether she’s designing residential sanctuaries or bold commercial concepts, her spaces are elevated, unexpected, and deeply personal. In this exclusive interview, Designeers explores her journey, design philosophy, and the energy led intuition that defines her creative lens
After a 15-year career in marketing, what inspired your transition into interior design? Was there a defining moment that led you to establish Ralee?
Nathalie Khouri
Ralee started thanks to my kids and a bit of pandemic madness. During lockdown, they were bouncing off the walls (literally), and out of desperation, I designed them a two-story playroom. We got a contractor to build it, posted it on Instagram, and suddenly people started asking me to design their homes. It was never the plan, but sometimes chaos leads to clarity! That playful experiment also shaped my understanding of fundamental interior design principles, helping me realise that thoughtful design deeply influences how we experience our surroundings.
DESIGNEERS
As a certified Feng Shui practitioner, how do you integrate its principles into your projects? Could you share an example where feng shui significantly influenced a space?
Nathalie Khouri
Feng Shui isn’t about incense and crystals, it’s about flow, alignment, and how your space quietly supports your well-being. I once worked with a client who hadn’t slept properly in years and relied heavily on medication. By thoughtfully applying key Feng Shui principles – particularly around bed placement and spatial flow – we transformed her bedroom into a true sanctuary. Within weeks of shifting the layout, she was sleeping soundly and no longer needed the meds. That’s the quiet power of energy, done right.
If you had to describe your design philosophy in just three words, what would they be, and why?
Nathalie Khouri
Warm, elevated, unexpected.
I often draw inspiration from Lebanese artisans – bold in their craftsmanship, rooted in tradition, and unafraid to make a statement. Their work aligns with my philosophy: design should offer more than beauty; it should tell a story. I believe every space deserves a narrative, with one or two unexpected details that invite curiosity and spark conversation. A room should feel like it has something to say—softly, but with conviction.
DESIGNEERS
You emphasise “understated luxury” in your work. How do you interpret this concept, and how does it manifest in your projects?
Nathalie Khouri
I love quiet luxury, it’s the true sign of richness. The more elite the client, the more understated their lifestyle tends to be. It’s not about showing off, it’s about living well. I observe that, respect it, and translate it into my designs. Think refined materials, thoughtful details, and spaces that speak softly but confidently.
DESIGNEERS
How does your approach differ when designing residential spaces compared to commercial ones? What unique challenges and rewards does each present?
Nathalie Khouri
When I design residential, I lead with my heart, it’s personal, emotional, and about how people feel in their space. Commercial projects? That’s where I switch to brain mode, often incorporating intuitive design architecture principles to align function with brand experience seamlessly. It’s about flow, function, brand experience and creating impact. Both are creative, but the approach is completely different.
“Every space should tell a story and have one or two unexpected, unique features that spark a conversation. A room should feel like it has something to say without shouting.”
Nathalie Khouri
DESIGNEERS
Do you have a favourite supplier or artisan whose work you frequently incorporate into your designs? What draws you to their craftsmanship?
Nathalie Khouri
I don’t stick to one supplier, but I make it a point on every project to work with at least one local artist, whether it’s art, furniture, or even pieces from a boutique concept store. I really try to keep things local whenever possible.
That said, I deeply admire Lebanese artisans like Marc Dibeh and Nada Debs; their work is thoughtful, bold, and beautifully rooted in craft. If I get the chance to integrate their pieces into a project, I absolutely will.
DESIGNEERS
Is there a design hotel that has particularly inspired you? What elements of its design resonate with your aesthetic?
Nathalie Khouri
I obsess over so many: Soho House in NYC, The Ned in Qatar, Arthaus in Beirut, each one so rich in personality. But my all-time favourite is Le Mount Stephen in my hometown, Montreal. That place is pure history. It’s storytelling through architecture, wrapped in incredible service. And if you ever needed a definition for understated luxury, that’s it.
DESIGNEERS
Among the projects you’ve undertaken, is there one that stands out as a favourite? What made it particularly special or memorable for you?
Nathalie Khouri
It was a client-turned-friend, though I’m not sure she even knows it! It was my favourite project (and honestly, my least profitable one, shhhh, don’t tell her lol), but I loved every moment. She gave me full creative freedom and, being an artist herself, pushed me to take risks and go beyond the expected. I learned so much from her. Now we travel together and spend loads of time; she’s fabulous, and I’m genuinely grateful.
DESIGNEERS
When facing a creative block, what strategies or activities help you regain inspiration and momentum?
Nathalie Khouri
I disconnect to reconnect. If I can, I travel; physically getting far away from work helps clear my head. The further I am from my to-do list, the faster the creativity flows back in. Sometimes the best ideas come when I’m not trying to find them.
DESIGNEERS
If you could identify one “superpower” that you bring to your design projects, what would it be, and how does it influence your work?
Nathalie Khouri
Intuition. I read people, spaces, and energy fast, but more importantly, I try to lead with sincerity. I bring real connection to every client and every project. If there’s a disconnect, whether with the vision or the relationship, I kindly step away. Leaving the corporate world gave me the freedom to choose projects that feel right. And honestly, I think that’s where my success lies. When there’s alignment, the magic happens.
Reference: https://www.designeersclub.com/journal/interview-feng-shui-nathalie-khouri
