Condé Nast Traveller
Train enthusiasts around the world will be able to experience Europe’s most iconic rail journey thanks to state-of-the-art virtual reality technology at this year’s Miami Design Fair.
A highlight of the showcase will undoubtedly be the unveiling of the presidential suite, an elegant new project led by architect Maxime d’Angeac. The great revolutionary artistic movements of the past few centuries and a love of historical travel books inspired the talented designer, who is best known for carrying out intricate restoration and design projects for fashion houses including Hermès and Guerlain.
« The Orient Express presidential suite captures the essence of the future train, » Maxime explained. « It is a work carved out of excess, inspired by the geniuses and pioneers of Art Deco, Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann and Armand-Albert Rateau, and by the importance of refinement and the absolute finesse of detail. It is a Suite where travellers can experience history, extreme luxury and ultimate comfort all at once. »
The presidential suite occupied an entire cart of the former Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express, measuring 69 feet long by nine feet wide, with a total square footage of 55 metres.
Lalique Panes characterise the sumptuous interiors, while a gas fireplace provides warmth for when the train trundles through chilly territory. The spacious bedroom is wrapped in embroidered velvet and decorated with custom-made furniture; the elegant bathroom’s design is a tribute to Albert-Armand Rateau’s work and is dedicated to Jeanne Lanvin.