A Trailblazer in Design and Philanthropy.

Leen Elisabeth Vandaele, an Australian-born Belgian, second of a family of 8 children has been shaping the design landscape and making a positive impact in the Middle East since 1988. With a career that began in 1981 as an interior designer and architect, she has executed prestigious projects across Belgium, Le Cannet, Nice (South of France) Great Neck, New York & Los Angeles (United States) As well in Vienna (Austria) , Tel Aviv (Israel) Monaco and  Tehran (Iran). Her ability to transform spaces with elegance and sophistication has garnered the attention of high-profile clients, including her work for Prince Sultan of Saudi Arabia, for whom she designed several palaces in the late 1980s and had the chance to work for some high profile families in Saudi Arabia, which was back then very unusual for a single young lady like her, an exceptional achievement for a young female designer at that time.

Leen’s passion for design is equally matched by her commitment to giving back. Every year, she organized an art event in Belgium, raising funds to support less fortunate children affected by severe and terminal illnesses and those with special needs. These events culminated in extraordinary experiences for the children, including a memorable day where she hired ten (10) helicopters to make dreams come true for 150 children to fly, where they were all honored with a degree as being the best passengers ever. 

In 2000, Leen relocated to Dubai after the tragic passing of her fiancé. This life-changing event did not deter her from continuing to excel in her field. She founded SQUISITO LLC and together with her business partner Sam Farhang they expanded the business by creating also the AND Partners design studio.  Leen was able to expand her influence in the design world and sharing life’s journey keeps her connected to a global network of interesting and compassionate individuals. She had shared the video link of “My Name is Leen” as she gathered 3 families together in Dubai in February 2023  who each one has a special story to tell of why they called their daughters – “Leen” <https://youtu.be/Vrrq8ADIQ-0 > this video has been realized by Owen Sanchez, the multi-awarded broadcast media personality in Dubai.  Who had given life to each of these Children’s story and so as to Leen Vandaele herself. We’re encouraging you to watch and enjoy this short film biography!

Concluding with a very inspirational Leen’s motto, “May those who live in the Shadow, be seen by those who live in the Sun,” reflects her life’s mission to support those in need. Her  future involvement with the “Joy to Give” Foundation further demonstrates her belief in making a lasting difference in the world!