With nearly two decades devoted to architecture and design, Lan Phuong – Founder of LMP Design – continues to embrace a philosophy of stillness, looking to nature as a source of renewal for both emotion and creative identity. 

Within the world of architecture and design, Lan Phuong has chosen a way of living rooted in stillness — a state that allows greater depth of thought, emotion and creative expression, while shaping projects with a distinct identity.
For her, sustainability is not merely a design philosophy; it is also a guiding principle for the way she lives. 
 
If you had to choose one word to describe your way of life throughout nearly two decades in the profession, what would it be?
Stillness.
Stillness allows me to listen and observe — to notice the subtle movements within space and within people.
When everything around us seems to move too quickly and too loudly, stillness is where I return to my own way of thinking and reconnect with the emotions that inform my design. 
 
Is there a particular colour palette, material or cultural symbol that you are consistently drawn to in your work?
I have always been drawn to neutral tones and natural materials such as wood and stone.
What I love about these materials is the way they carry the traces of time so beautifully. They do not need to be overly embellished or accompanied by unnecessary decorative elements.
Their beauty already exists in their authenticity. 

 Is there a book or film that has particularly inspired your creative journey?
One of my favourite books is The Architecture of Happiness by Alain de Botton.
The book explores how spaces can shape our emotions, our way of living and even aspects of who we become.
It reminds me that architecture is not about self-expression for its own sake. Rather, it is about understanding people and caring for the way they live. 
 
In your ideal home, what kind of space would allow you to pause, breathe and reconnect with yourself?
It would be a place where I can connect with nature — perhaps a balcony or simply a window.
A place where I can feel immersed in the natural world, where daylight quietly filters in and ambient sounds become almost like a background composition.
For me, an ideal space is one where you can be alone without feeling lonely.
Perhaps that is also one of the greatest luxuries a contemporary home can offer. 

 Beyond the office, where do you usually go to restore your creative energy?
Outside the workplace, I often return to nature — somewhere surrounded by trees, natural light and the sound of flowing water.
There is something about the unfiltered beauty of nature that allows me to recharge, while also reconnecting with my own creative identity. 
 
Is there a philosophy that serves as a guiding principle in both your personal life and your professional journey?
Live deeply enough to arrive at stillness.
Live consciously enough not to be carried away by what shines only for a moment.
In life, just as in design, I believe in sustainability — both in emotion and in value.
Things that possess true depth do not need to be loud in order to prove their worth. 
 
Thank you, Lan Phuong, for sharing your thoughts and perspective.
Source: Luxuo Vietnam