Lisa Franzen
Lisa Franzen is an Italian-Russian designer based in Zurich whose collectible furniture explores the relationship between architecture, sculpture, and materiality. Guided by a minimalist sensibility and a deep appreciation for natural materials, she creates timeless pieces defined by clean geometries, refined proportions, and meticulous craftsmanship.
Drawing inspiration from architecture, nature, and the expressive qualities of stone, wood, and metal, Franzen develops limited-edition furniture that balances sculptural presence with everyday function. Through thoughtful material combinations and understated forms, her work celebrates enduring design, tactile beauty, and the quiet elegance of contemporary living.
Interview
I was born in Russia, in Kazan. But I grew up in Italy, in Rome.
Both of my parents were professional ballet dancers; they danced in the Bolshoi Theatre as well. So my first approach to art was through ballet, classical music, and all the theater scenography. When I was little, I was often behind the backstage, and I was in love with the environment. My father has a passion for art; I think I was inspired by him. He sculpts and paints.
Yes, after graduating from high school, I went to study interior design in London.
I always wanted to express myself through art; I wanted to transform my ideas into something tangible. I started with painting, and then I approached the design field.
I am inspired by Mother Nature. My design creations are inspired by the beauty and patterns found in nature. Nature’s diversity and elegance serve as my muse and influence every aspect of my design. Nature’s inherent textures and resilience inspire me to work with materials like wood, stone, and metal.
My working day starts around 9:30. After dropping my two little boys (2 and 4) off at kindergarten, I am a working mom :).
Organizing my workday into three phases, I focus on technical and administrative tasks initially, followed by on-site visits and inspections for ongoing projects. The final phase is dedicated to the creative process, where I can unleash my ideas through drawing and expression.
In my material choices, I prioritize those that serve as a canvas for nature’s beauty. Each selected element not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but becomes a tangible reflection of the organic grace and timeless allure found in the natural world.
The meticulous handwork of skilled artisans is at the heart of my process, emphasizing an unwavering commitment to quality. By placing craftsmanship at the forefront, each piece not only showcases precision but also embodies a unique touch, elevating the overall standard and aesthetic appeal of my creations.
Absolutely, embracing your ideas and work without fear of criticism is key. Recognizing that not everyone will resonate with your creations allows you to stay true to your vision and maintain the authenticity of your artistic expression.
Between Brutalism and Minimalism.
Ludwig mies van der rohe, Angelo Mangiarotti, and John Pawson.
Claudio Silvestrin, Vincenzo De Cotiis and Drift.
My favorites are Olafur Eliasson and Damien Hirst.
Simple forms, natural materials. My creations embody a pure and direct connection with nature.
“Nature’s diversity and elegance serve as my muse and influence every aspect of my design.”
The Questions
(The Proust Questionnaire is a set of questions answered by the French writer Marcel Proust.
Other historical figures who have answered confession albums are Oscar Wilde,
Karl Marx, Arthur Conan Doyle, Stéphane Mallarmé, Paul Cézanne…)
Perfect happiness is rooted in self satisfaction
Losing loved ones
I deplore occasional cynicism in myself
I deplore hypocrisy
My mom
I am highly sensitive, I perceive and connect with others
I am very focused
Pride
Sarcasm
Self confidence
Recently I overuse Holes
Sing
Nothing
My inner balance and my kids
I would like to be a panter or a lion
Switzerland
My kids
A failed person in life and love
Being an Interior Designer
I am a sunny person
Loyalty
Mikhail Bulgakov
Batman
Elizabeth I
Warzone volunteers
Luna, Blu, Falco
Verbal violence
Dedicating time to the wrong people
Die in the sleep without realizing it
I am a waterfall, always renewing undisturbed by external disturbances
“The meticulous handwork of skilled artisans is at the heart of my process.”
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