Today we’d like to introduce you to Lanna Ali-Hassan.
Hi Lanna, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I didn’t start out in design—I actually began my career in science. But I realized I was craving a more creative path, so I made the decision to go back to school and pursue interior design. That shift really set everything in motion.
Upon graduation from design school, I started as an intern, gaining hands-on experience and learning the day-to-day realities of the industry. From there, I worked in a kitchen and bath showroom, which gave me a strong technical foundation and a deep understanding of how design functions in real life. I then went on to work for other design firms, continuing to refine my skills and perspective.
Eventually, I felt ready to take everything I had learned and build something of my own—that’s how Beyond the Box Interiors came to life. It’s been an evolving journey, but each step has shaped the way I approach design today, blending creativity with real-world functionality.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road. Like many career pivots, starting over in a new field came with its own set of challenges. There was a lot of uncertainty in those early stages, along with long hours and a learning curve in understanding the business side of the industry.
Running a design business goes far beyond the creative side—it involves managing budgets, timelines, contractors, and client expectations. It also requires wearing many hats—designer, project manager, social media coordinator, and problem-solver—all at once.
Those challenges have been some of the most valuable parts of the journey. They’ve helped me grow not only as a designer, but as a business owner, and have shaped the way I lead projects and support my clients today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Beyond the Box Interiors?
Beyond the Box Interiors is a full-service interior design firm focused on creating thoughtful, highly livable spaces that reflect each client’s personality while elevating how they experience their home. We specialize in kitchen and bath design, full-service interior design, and holiday decorating, guiding our clients from the initial concept all the way through installation.
What sets us apart is our ability to balance creativity with functionality. With a background in both science and design, I approach each project with a level of precision that ensures the space not only looks beautiful, but truly works for how my clients live day to day. We’re known for layering materials, finishes, and details in a way that feels elevated yet approachable—never overdone, but always intentional.
We also place a strong emphasis on the client experience. Design can feel overwhelming, and one of our goals is to make the process feel seamless, organized, and even enjoyable. Through clear communication, thoughtful planning, and strong industry relationships, we’re able to execute projects with a high level of care and attention to detail.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the trust we build with our clients and the consistency in our work. Each project is different, but they all share the same foundation—beautiful design that is functional, personal, and meant to be lived in.
At the end of the day, I want readers to know that great design isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it feels to live in it. I believe thoughtful design goes beyond aesthetics; it has the power to support well-being, evoke emotion, and create a deeper connection to the spaces we inhabit.
How do you think about luck?
I don’t think of my journey as being driven by luck, but I do think timing and opportunity have played a role. There have been moments where the right opportunity came along at the right time—whether it was a position, a client, or a connection—and I was prepared to step into it.
At the same time, I’ve also experienced situations that didn’t go as planned—projects that were more challenging than expected or moments that forced me to pivot. In hindsight, those experiences were just as valuable, if not more so, because they pushed me to grow, refine my process, and become more resilient as a business owner.
I think what people sometimes call “luck” is really a combination of preparation, persistence, and being open to learning along the way. I’ve tried to stay consistent in how I show up, do the work, and take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://beyondtheboxinteriors.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondtheboxinteriors
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeyondTheBoxInteriors/
