Following its initial announcement this spring, The Venice Simplon-Orient Express, a Belmond Train, has unveiled the interior images of L’Observatorie – a sleeper carriage designed exclusively by artist JR.
Slated to launch in March 2025, the carriage will be the largest on board the ultra-luxe train and features a grand bedroom complete with a freestanding bathtub, a separate bathroom, a lounge area (that can be figured as a private dining room), and even a secret tea lounge.
The carriage’s interiors hark back to the train’s glamorous origins while simultaneously inviting guests to venture into the wild and wondrous world of JR’s creative vision.
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“The carriages have traveled through countless decades and eras, so I wanted to find a new way to approach them, maintaining the connection to this deep story,” says JR.
“Both my work and the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express are very artisanal, so L’Observatoire felt like a natural fit. Working with artisans, choosing woods and materials, and discovering motifs was not a constraint, because I am interested in making this a timeless artwork – as if I was an artist from the 1920s. I have added some features that are only possible in the 21st century but the fundamental craft is timeless.”
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Described by the brand as an ‘artwork in motion’ and a ‘studio on wheels,’ L’Observatorie has been thoughtfully filled with objet d’arts and quirky artistic features, all of which have been handpicked by JR to invoke a sense of childlike adventure and curiosity. In keeping with the playful nature of the carriage, many of the features are kept secret, encouraging guests to discover new and intriguing details as the train journey unfolds.
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A key component of the carriage’s design is its marquetry, for which JR worked closely with longtime Venice Simplon-Orient Express collaborator Atelier Philippe Allemand. Together, they created new custom motifs, including a cityscape that depicts JR himself standing on a rooftop.
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Other notable design details include the bedroom’s green leather scalloping, intended to emulate leaves; the green Carrara marble bathroom; the two oculi skylights that allow guests to gaze up at the night sky; a window-front daybed; and a custom stained glass installation by expert artisan Michael Mayer.
In true Venice Simplon-Orient Express style, service in the L’Observatorie carriage will be second to none: guests will be treated to 24-hour butler service, private in-cabin dining, and transfers to and from the train, as well as bespoke amenities.
