At only 33 years old, Luke Edward Hall has become a true phenomenon in the world of design. A British dandy with a chic and colorful look, the man who began his training at Central Saint Martins has hit the bull’s eye in every field he undertakes. Decorator, designer, artist… The immeasurable Wes Anderson fan even plays the role of stylist by exhibiting the latest collection of his brand Château Orlando at Le Bon Marché!
His latest project? The Hotel Les Deux Gares. The former bourgeois building nestled in a narrow alley in the tenth arrondissement of the capital has just inaugurated two new suites to complete its offbeat universe. For this colorful and patterned setting, the designer was inspired by a universe between British audacity a la David Hicks, and references to French heritage honoring figures such as Madeleine Castaing or Jean Cocteau. When the union of the frog and the roast beef make good mix…!
What day and time is it? What do you usually do at this time of the week?
« It’s 9:30 a.m. and it’s Thursday. Normally at this time I am in my studio which is in a converted outbuilding on a farm in the English countryside. »
What is your latest project?
« I just launched my clothing brand Château Orlando. It’s a brand around the art of knitting. This first collection is specifically inspired by gardens and this idea of a medieval castle. The visual identity and graphic design of the logo was pretty much inspired by typography and cinema from the 1960s and 1970s. »
What was the starting point for the Hotel les Deux Gares?
« We imagined a vibrant and romantic clash between English and French styles. There is my English version of mixing bold colors and patterns and many nods to French design such as antique Empire furniture, toile de Jouy wallpaper, vintage Parisian exhibition posters… »
What materials did you use?
« Everything. Linen and velvet, wallpaper, wood for furniture… »
What are the inspirations?
What has influenced and shaped your tastes?
« I’m influenced by so many different things: music (especially 1980s electronic pop), historical movements and periods (18th century, 1920s London…), interior designers and artists of the past… »
Form, function or fantasy?
« All three are important. But for me, fantasy is paramount. I want to make work that transports the imagination. »
Your madeleine de Proust?
« The sea air of the English seaside and the smell of fish and chips, they remind me of my childhood… »
3 artistic favorites?
« Of all time? It’s hard to choose. I loved an exhibition featuring the work of Andy Warhol and William Morris at the Modern Art Oxford many years ago. Otherwise, I always enjoy the Gucci fashion shows. For film, I really enjoy the work of Luca Guadagnino. »
3 personalities who influence you?
3 inspiring Instagram accounts?
A place to return to every week?
« Rome for its various incredible museums and galleries… »
