Since 2017, El Zein has perceived an appetite in the Lebanese market for furniture that is unique, while also minimising environmental harm. “Our products form part of the circular economy and can be customised to the buyer’s needs,” said El Zein.
What is more, Green Shift Leb draws in customers with the special background for each new piece. El Zein’s team has made gramophone-style lamps from wine bottles; fashioned a desk into a bookshelf; and repurposed cigar boxes as tea bowls, jewellery boxes and food trays.
“My favourite moments are when people become aware of what we do, and ask about the story of each item,” said El Zein.
El Zein is the creative mind behind Green Shift Leb, drawing on her background as an interior architect and her current PhD studies in sustainable architecture. She finds high-quality wooden pieces and imagines a new future for them. Then, as required, El Zein engages carpenters and other craftspeople to implement her designs.
For now, Green Shift Leb has sold products at exhibitions and street markets. As the business grows, El Zein would like to place her pieces in concept stores, before ultimately opening her own workshop and gallery.
