Outside their day jobs, the couple runs Carpet Studio—a budding interiors brand that’s quickly gaining traction among Filipino homeowners and design professionals back home.
Even while based overseas, Lester and Laarni manage a growing startup that now serves clients in Davao, Marikina, and even some of Metro Manila’s upscale neighborhoods.
The key? Seamless coordination, mutual trust, and an unshakable commitment to family and long-term goals.
Fashion interiors
Carpet Studio was officially registered in March 2024, but the groundwork began months earlier. With only P100,000 in pooled capital—money saved from leasing out their apartment in Manila—the couple began sourcing stylish yet affordable carpets from China, targeting middle-income Filipino families.
By September, they secured a space at Fashion Interiors, a well-known furniture and posh design showroom that gave their brand valuable exposure to interior designers, architects, and high-end homeowners.
“Just being there gave us instant credibility. Interior designers started reaching out,” Laarni recalled.
Global taste
In Kuwait, carpets are a part of daily life—brought to picnics, used in prayer, or simply for family lounging. It’s common for households to purchase four to five carpets a year.
“We thought, why not bring that practical, cultural appreciation here?” said Lester.
The couple began by importing “zero-pile” carpets from China, known for trendy designs and affordability. But they soon diversified into premium Turkish carpets, both machine-made and handwoven, admired for their plush feel, durability, and traditional artistry.
Carpet Studio focuses on two core segments: budget-friendly Chinese carpets priced as low as P2,500, and high-end Turkish carpets – machine-made and handwoven – sought after for their plush texture and timeless designs.
“There’s a story behind every Turkish carpet. They’re like the Hermès of floor coverings – timeless, expressive, and made with craftsmanship,” Laarni quipped.
A third segment, mid-tier offerings suited for mall retail, is already in the pipeline as the couple eyes expansion into B market spaces soon.
The couple admitted that managing a growing business from abroad isn’t easy. The two rely on tight coordination, online marketing, and a small network of local contacts who help with logistics and showroom visits.
“Our setup depends on checks and balances. If one of us doesn’t agree, we don’t proceed. That rule keeps us in sync,” said Laarni, noting how they occasionally clash, especially with differing opinions on design or pricing.
“It’s better to challenge each other than to make costly mistakes,” Lester said.
Making waves
To their surprise, inquiries began pouring in from clients in Forbes Park and high-end residential enclaves, proof that their carpets, especially the Turkish ones, were resonating beyond the middle market.
They’ve since worked with interior designers and styling firms who include Carpet Studio in curated selections for clients.
“The goal is to become a full-range outfitter. Hotels, condos, homes – if you need a carpet, we want to be your go-to,” Lester said.
There were times, both recalled, that they’ve even had to politely turn down some clients’ requests, like cutting large Turkish rugs to fit smaller spaces, if it compromises the product.
“We protect the integrity of the brand. Even if clients are willing to pay more, we won’t alter a P90,000 rug if it ruins the design,” Laarni said.
While Carpet Studio has come far in under a year, the couple knows they’re still at the beginning of a longer journey. They’re learning the ropes of luxury retail, logistics, and supply chain management—all while maintaining full-time jobs overseas.
Their business philosophy is grounded in what a mentor once told them, “expect failure 70 percent of the time, and success 30 percent, so you don’t get discouraged too easily.”
Family-centered
Lester, 39, is originally from Antipolo and has been working in Kuwait for the past seven years. Laarni, 37, hails from Marikina and has built her career there over the last 12 years.
The couple takes turns flying home every six months, staying for a month at a time to personally manage operations and spend time with their children.
