LIVING THE FANTASY

Home decor designer Lubna Allana invites HELLO! readers into her Belgravia home to share her passion for craftsmanship and a richly curated collection of treasures

Lubna Allana's six-storey townhouse in London's Belgravia is even more impressive than you might expect from the scion of a great Indian dynasty.

Every room is visually stunning, a window on to a fantasy world where golden vine tendrils trail across walls and gem-studded peacocks strut among mother-of-pearl blossoms on a cabinet.

There are tables made of malachite, amethyst mirrors and a chair in the form of a beautiful green leaf.

The exquisite effect is all Lubna's own work, thanks to her passion for what she calls "liveable art".

Although Lubna's proud family history of entrepreneurship goes back to the 19th century, she has found her own vocation in design. Her decor brand 1865 La Maison produces pieces that are made to be treasured.

"What we create are modern heirlooms," she tells HELLO!.

With global craftsmanship and cultural heritage at the heart of what she does, Lubna travels widely, often accompanied by her daughter Iman, who is her right-hand support in the business.

When not on the move, Lubna can be found in London or at one of her other homes in Mumbai, India, and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, where her husband Irfan Allana has given her creations pride of place in his gallery at Tiffany Tower.

Lubna, can you tell us about the inspiration for your brand?

"1865 started out with a mission to preserve, harness and present historic artisanal techniques from India and along the Silk Route. Having created a wonderful community of craftspeople with specific skill sets, I felt it was time to take these modern-day heirloom creations to a global audience, celebrating and supporting the crafts community.