Words By Ivan Allegranti | Photographs By Ashiesh Shah

At once poetic and precise, The Invisible Collection has redefined how we perceive—and acquire—design. Founded in 2016 by Isabelle Dubern-Mallevays, Anna Zaoui, and Lily Froehlicher, the platform elevates collectible design beyond objecthood, inviting us into a world where each piece tells a story, evokes emotion, and reflects the singular vision of its maker. What sets The Invisible Collection apart is not only its curatorial eye, but also its deep reverence for craftsmanship, cultural resonance, and environmental responsibility.

Bridging the traditions of decorative arts with a refined digital presence, the gallery brings together over 250 renowned designers and 350 master artisans—championing a new vision of sustainable, made-to- order luxury. Marie Claire Maison Arabia spoke with co-founders Isabelle Dubern-Mallevays and Lily Froehlicher to explore what defines collectability today, and how emotion, heritage, and meaning continue to shape this ever-evolving landscape.

What defines a “collectible” in design for you? Is it about rarity, craftsmanship, emotional value, or all three?

Isabelle Dubern-Mallevays: I’d say cultural relevance, craftsmanship, and emotional value. In my mind, rarity is not an absolute requirement. Think of the Jeanneret chairs or the clam chairs—there were so many produced, which should have lessened their desirability and collectability, and yet, you’ll find them in many collectors’ homes. A design is collectible when it embodies a vision, cultural meaning, and unmatched craftsmanship. These are the values we champion at The Invisible Collection. In fact, because of their handmade quality, each design is inherently unique.

Is collectible design limited to historical pieces, or does it also apply to contemporary creations?

Isabelle Dubern-Mallevays: The concept of collectability isn’t confined to the past. I could quote Shakespeare and say, “Love is in the eyes of the beholder”. Even though he famously put it into words, this idea is as old as humankind. The question really is: as a collector, why does a given piece trigger desire? The answer lies in the story behind it, the quality, and sometimes the aesthetic. Ultimately, whether a piece is antique or contemporary, it becomes collectible when it strikes a chord and resonates with the collector.

What trends in “Collectible Design” are shaping the future of interiors?

Isabelle Dubern-Mallevays: Storytelling and craftsmanship. At The Invisible Collection, we’ve never followed fleeting trends like the colour of the year or the latest style. I truly believe people dream of a home where every piece has a story to tell—from its inspiration to its creation. It’s a deeply emotional connection.

Was there a specific piece of furniture that sparked your love for collectible design? If so, why?

Lily Froehlicher: Rather than a single piece, it was an atmosphere: the iconic living room of Marie-Laure de Noailles, designed by Jean-Michel Frank, who is my design hero. It sparked an unwavering love for interior design in me. Since then, I’ve been drawn to designs that embody relevance and meaning, crafted by the best artisans in the world. I feel incredibly fortunate that through The Invisible Collection I can encounter so many designs to fall in love with—my latest passion is the Apollinaire coffee table from the Jacques Doucet collection.