The Venice Simplon-Orient Express, A Belmond Train, Europe has unveiled the interiors of L’Observatoire, a new carriage designed by artist JR. Scheduled to join the rake in March 2025, the sleeper car has been curated by the artist who has replicated the spirit of his Parisian studio with personal objets d’art to be uncovered throughout the “studio on wheels.”
A critical design component of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is the marquetry, which JR has re-envisioned alongside Atelier Philippe Allemand, who has worked on the train’s marquetry since 1997. Collaboratively, they have created new motifs that are on display throughout the carriage.
The carriage interiors flow through several "micro-environments," from the bedroom complete with a free-standing bathtub, the adjoining bathroom, a lounge, library, and hidden Tea Room. Two oculi have been added to the ceiling in the bedroom and the Tea Room, allowing guests to gaze at the sky as the train travels through Europe. Inspired by camera lenses, the oculus-shaped skylights use wood pieces that rotate to open and close. The bedroom is enveloped in green leather scalloping that resembles leaves, besides a surrealist tree by stained-glass expert Michael Mayer with a twist of imagination by JR.
Original photographs from JR’s various travels adorn the hallway, accompanying the guests as they walk in a living gallery.
In the lounge, bespoke couches allow for flexible arrangements; guests can reconfigure the space into a private dining area, accommodating up to five people. A day bed at window level allows travelers to immerse themselves in the passing landscape and embrace the art of slow travel. The carriage is also home to a library stocked with books, as well as a selection of vinyl records.
Hidden behind the library and accessed via a secret door is L’Observatoire’s Tea Room, where a miniature train installation showcases a short film. Amongst the books, guests will discover miniatures of JR’s “Giants” series including “Giants, Rising Up, 2023,” and “Giants, Kikito, 2017."
L’Observatoire is now open for bookings. The stay will include all meals with sommelier’s choice of wine and unlimited soft drinks, 24-hour butler service, in-cabin dining, transfers to and from the train, bespoke amenities, and further surprise touches from JR.
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