Dive into the heart of a fairytale escape where Art and Travel intertwine boldly. The Orient Express, this railway myth with timeless charm, takes on a new breath thanks to the singular vision of French artist JR. In his sumptuous sleeper car, named The Observatory, every detail, from the decor to the furniture, tells a story, transforming this 31 m² suite into a true sanctuary of travel where the boundaries between art and hospitality blur. Prepare to be amazed by this sensory immersion that blends luxury, creativity, and a touch of mystery.
The magic of Travel takes a new form through JR’s bold work, an artist whose imagination has shaped an exceptional sleeper car, named The Observatory. Immersed in the opulence and mystery of the Orient Express, this reimagined car combines modern art and the tradition of luxury trains, offering its guests an unparalleled immersive experience. Let’s take a closer look at this creation that evokes both railway heritage and contemporaneity.
An Artistic Collaboration Story #
The meeting between contemporary art and extraordinary luxury begins when the famous hotel brand Belmond, which manages the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, invites JR to reimagine one of its cars. Renowned for his engaged works, he is far from suspecting that this adventure will take him to the heights of railway design. For four years, the artist worked with a hundred European artisans, merging their traditional know-how with his artistic vision. The goal? To create a space that is both inclusive and sumptuous, where anyone can see themselves.
The Magic of The Observatory #
The 31m² sleeper car, both intimate and majestic, reveals itself as a house on rails. From the entrance to the sleeping area, the visitor is welcomed by a warm atmosphere, accentuated by thoughtfully designed details. An opening roof, allowing one to admire the sky while gliding on the rails, is one of the major innovations. Every element, from the flooring to the marquetry, is an invitation to contemplation.
JR also enjoyed incorporating symbolic motifs, such as the recurring element of the eye, scattered throughout various details of the decoration. These nods invite exploration of the space with curiosity and wonder, creating a playful atmosphere within the most refined luxury.
An Offer that Awakens the Senses #
This journey through time is also an experience for the senses. Onboard this reimagined car, guests enjoy butler service, gourmet meals, and an exquisite selection of wines. The dining car, sublime with the starred chef Jean Imbert, adds a culinary touch to this unprecedented escape. Each dish is a work of art, harmoniously matching the sumptuous decor that surrounds it.
Guests can wrap themselves in the mysterious atmosphere of the starry night while enjoying a bronze bathtub placed in front of an Art Nouveau stained-glass window. An experience like no other that turns the journey aboard the Orient Express into a true ballet of the senses.
À lire exploration of the breathtaking landscapes of Conflent in the Eastern Pyrenees
An Invitation to Immutable Travel #
The sleeper car imagined by JR transcends the simple concept of train travel; it is a true escape. In a world where everything moves quickly, it evokes the nostalgia of travel from days gone by, where arrival was less important than the journey itself. JR evokes this idea in simple words: “This train should no longer exist in this world where everything goes fast.” With his project, the artist revives a symbol, offering everyone the chance to dream.
And behind this project lies a deeply human vision. Art becomes the link between traditional craftsmanship and modern luxury, allowing each traveler to take a pause from the tumult of daily life to savor the moment.
Conclusion: A Promise of Escape #
The Observatory, as the centerpiece of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, promises an escape through European landscapes, while being deeply rooted in art and culture. This achievement is not just a simple car, but a universe of possibilities, a place where one can dream, savor, and discover the world in a way that few experiences can offer.
