In her studio and on walks with her dog, we meet Lara Begovic – a designer whose work reflects the same values of simplicity, functionality and thoughtful design that also characterise the Doppio Bauhaus Inspired.
Some objects accompany us quite naturally through the rhythm of everyday life. A leash in hand during a morning walk, the familiar weight of a watch on the wrist – small details that become part of daily rituals. To launch the Doppio Bauhaus Inspired, MONDAINE presents a designer whose work embodies a similar philosophy: thoughtful design characterized by function, simplicity, and lasting quality. Photographed in moments of her everyday life – in the studio and on walks with her dog – she embodies a lifestyle in which craftsmanship, design, and routine come together naturally. It is precisely in these moments that the Doppio Bauhaus Inspired finds its place.
MONDAINE: Your work combines functionality and aesthetics in the design of objects. How did your journey to creating handcrafted dog leashes begin?
Lara: I actually founded KAHU at my kitchen table in Zurich. It was during a time when I was discovering what life with my dog Ace was like. I couldn't find any dog accessories that were both durable and beautiful – everything seemed either too technical or too boring. My first collar was made the evening my grandfather died. I started making my own collars and leashes from BioThane®, and eventually, a brand quietly developed from that.
MONDAINE: Your products appear both practical and meticulously designed. How would you describe your design approach?
Lara: For me, design always begins with how something is used. A leash has to feel comfortable in your hand, be easy to clean, and last for many years – that's the functional aspect. Aesthetics follow directly after, because I believe practical things can still be bold, stylish, and a little playful.
MONDAINE: When you first saw the Doppio Bauhaus Inspired – what struck you most from a design perspective?
Lara: What impressed me first was the clarity. Nothing seemed superfluous, and every detail appeared to be deliberately chosen. As someone who designs objects myself, I immediately notice when something appears balanced without being intrusive.
MONDAINE: The Doppio Bauhaus Inspired embraces the Bauhaus philosophy, often described as "form follows function." Does this idea resonate with your own working method?
Lara: Absolutely. When you design something that people use every day, function has to come first. The beauty comes from realizing this simplicity correctly.
MONDAINE: Our Doppio watches represent a clear and sophisticated design language, characterized by thoughtful construction and details. Do you also find yourself navigating the tension between functionality and aesthetics in your work?
Lara: Yes, constantly. I'm always balancing durability and elegance, because dog accessories have to withstand mud, water, and daily use. The challenge is to create something that works exceptionally well and looks beautiful at the same time.
MONDAINE: The dial of the Doppio Bauhaus Inspired is inspired by the Bauhaus colour theory. What role does colour play in expressing personality or shaping design?
Lara: Colour plays a major role in my work. Many dog accessories are very neutral or purely functional, but I like combinations that are expressive and personal. Sometimes it's just a small colour detail that makes an everyday object special.
MONDAINE: Walking a dog creates a natural rhythm in everyday life. What role do these daily walks play in your routine and creative thinking?
Lara: Walks with Ace structure my whole day. They force me to slow down, get outside, and clear my head. Honestly, some of my best ideas come to me while walking together in the woods. This calm rhythm creates space for new thoughts.
MONDAINE: Some objects silently accompany us every day. What makes a design object something you want to wear or use regularly?
Lara: For me, it's about quiet reliability. The best objects are the ones you reach for automatically every day, without thinking about it. They simply work – and over time become part of your routine.
MONDAINE: If you could design the perfect everyday object - something simple yet meaningful - what would it be?
Lara: I think I would design a really well-thought-out wall hook. Something extremely simple, but perfectly proportioned, that can hold anything - a leash, a coat, or a bag. It's such a small object, but if the design is right, it becomes a natural part of everyday life without you even consciously noticing it.
Discover Lara's Instagram here. Learn more about Lara here.
