Behind the doors of an old house lies a treasure trove of quirky gifts, addictive cupcakes and fashions by emerging designers. TOB sat  down with the co-founder of Kitsch boutique and bakery to find out more about the city’s most welcoming concept store.

What is Kitsch?
This is your home away from home. My best friend and I came back from abroad and put together everything we missed, whether it was cool clothes, books or knickknacks. We also have a café, the type of hidden haven where the waiter knows your name.

How can a boutique feel like home?
It’s like a friend’s closet, with all the elements of a really nice wardrobe. You wander around, go into the fitting room in the ‘boudoir’ and try something on. If you don’t like it, throw it on the chair. Then go sit on the couch with coffee and a cupcake.

Who visits the boudoir and bakery?
Artsy, fashion-conscious people who are probably more international, mentally, than the rest of the local crowd. In Beirut people want to dress up, go Downtown and see who’s out. So we’re actually anti-Beirut; you don’t come here to people watch. The most Lebanese thing about Kitsch is where it’s set.

Why did a traditional Lebanese house feel right?
It couldn’t be a cold, commercial space on a main street. This house was in terrible condition, but my partner and I sat on the floor with just one light bulb and decorated it. That’s what gives it its charm.

Any plans to expand?
It’s always a possibility; we already have Kitsch Cupcakes in Dubai. My background is in fashion design and marketing so I’m actually itching to design…