Thinking

Who are we?

Ambition.Realised.

Liminal Design operates at the intersection of design, development, and place — shaping environments that are commercially viable, experientially rich, and grounded in their context.

We deliver residential, commercial, hospitality, institutional, and urban projects, integrating architecture, interiors, and spatial strategy to strengthen brand identity, user experience, and long-term asset performance.

We design not only for present use, but for continuity — of value, identity, and place.

Roots

Liminal Design is led by Architect Catherine Sani born in Germany and of Malawian-Ethiopian heritage. Interest in identity, place and perception, her experience spans architecture, education, and enterprise. This cross-sector perspective brings:

  • Governance and institutional understanding
  • Financial and development awareness
  • Strategic thinking beyond the building itself

The practice therefore operates not only as designers, but as partners in shaping viable, meaningful projects.

Our Approach

Design that builds value — spatially, economically, and socially.

At Liminal Design, our work responds to the realities of context such as climate, resource constraints, evolving urban conditions, and the need for long-term performance.

We see these not as limitations, but as drivers of intelligent, enduring design.

RBM pension fund building design competition hand sketch
reserve bank of malawi pension fund building liminal design

Our Design Method

Listening → Strategic Alignment → Integrated Design

listening liminal design

Listening

Every project begins with understanding.

We engage deeply with:

  • Client objectives and investment goals
  • Operational and financial realities
  • Cultural and environmental context
  • Long-term aspirations for the asset

This stage defines not just what is built, but why it matters.

Strategic alignment

We align design decisions with both place and performance. Our methodology balances:

  • Contextual responsiveness (climate, material, culture)
  • Commercial viability and lifecycle value
  • User experience and spatial clarity
  • Buildability within local systems

We do not separate beauty from function, nor creativity from responsibility.

Value is created when these are resolved together.

Liminal Design by CS integrated design

Integrated design

From concept through to delivery, we integrate:

  • Architecture
  • Interiors
  • Spatial and brand strategy

This ensures cohesion across experience, identity, and long-term asset performance.

We design environments that work — for users, for operators, and for the realities in which they are built.