When Hanadi Abou Jaoude Haddad and her husband, both architects, made the decision to start their own business, they knew it was a defining moment. “It was now or never,” Hanadi says. “Either we start something on our own, or we remain employees for the rest of our lives.” That leap of faith planted the seed for what would become one of Lebanon’s leading manufacturing companies.
What began as a tiny business designing cushions with a unique twisted design has grown over 26 years into a large-scale company renowned for furniture manufacturing and home design. Their brand, Elements, is now known as a one-stop destination for architecture, furniture, and home accessories.
How Hanadi Haddad Built Lebanon’s Furniture Empire
Hanadi and her husband’s journey wasn’t just about expanding their business it was about responding to their clients’ needs. “When we designed architecture for homes, our clients always asked us to handle the details too,” she recalls. “They wanted us to take care of furniture, fitouts, even home accessories. That’s what made Elements what it is today.”
Starting small and gradually broadening their offerings, Hanadi’s business acumen helped her tap into a niche market, blending architecture and interior design into one seamless service. Despite the many economic ups and downs Lebanon faced, her company stayed sustainable, adapting and evolving with every challenge.
Breaking Barriers: Woman Architect’s Rise in Lebanon
Being a woman in the architecture world, especially in Lebanon, wasn’t easy for Hanadi. “We live in a man’s world, and it was hard to find my place,” she admits. But through 30 years of dedication, Hanadi has earned the respect she deserves. Beyond running a successful architecture firm, she now hosts a TV show where she talks about design and architecture. She’s also an Instagram influencer and a university professor teaching architecture at USEK.
Her experience highlights the challenges many women face in male-dominated fields but also shines a light on the possibilities when passion and perseverance meet.
Designing Dreams: Hanadi’s Philosophy on Architecture
For Hanadi, architecture is not just about buildings. “I’ve learned that architects should listen carefully to people’s requests and dreams,” she explains. “Our job is to make their dreams come true.” This customer-focused approach has helped her build trust and strong relationships with clients, fueling the growth of her company.
Hanadi’s belief in the power of design to improve lives is at the heart of her work. She sees architecture as a collaborative process between the designer and the client, where every detail matters.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
Hanadi is passionate about passing on her knowledge and encouraging the next generation. “I would love to see our industry continue from one generation to another,” she says. “We believe in youth and their minds. They bring fresh ideas and energy.”
Her advice to young architects and designers? “Learn as much as you can from all the people you meet on your way. Every encounter teaches you something new.”
The Many Roles of Hanadi Abou Jaoude Haddad
Hanadi’s career is a blend of many roles architect, business owner, TV host, professor, and influencer. This diversity allows her to connect with people across different platforms and inspire a wide audience. Through social media, she shares her work, lifestyle, and insights, making architecture more accessible and engaging to the public.
Her Instagram account showcases her latest projects, design tips, and personal reflections, providing a window into the life of a woman who has shaped Lebanon’s design scene for over two decades.
Inspiring Through Struggle and Success
Hanadi’s story is more than a business success it’s a tale of perseverance in a country facing many hardships. Despite economic and political challenges in Lebanon, she has managed to grow her business steadily.
Her journey inspires others, especially women, to pursue their dreams regardless of the obstacles. She stands as a symbol of determination, creativity, and hope.
Conclusion
Hanadi Abou Jaoude Haddad’s journey from a small cushion design business to leading one of Lebanon’s biggest manufacturing companies is a testament to courage and vision. Her story reflects not only personal success but also a commitment to empowering others through architecture and design.
For those looking to follow their dreams, Hanadi’s message is clear: take the leap, listen closely to your clients, believe in youth, and never stop learning.
Her legacy is already set to inspire many generations to come.
Do follow her on Instagram
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