Design Voyage
Combining traditional design elements and exceptional craftsmanship with contemporary living, this year’s edition of the Objets Nomades collection sees two new designers embarking on new adventures with Louis Vuitton, writes Hashirin Nurin Hashimi
A name synonymous with the art of travel, French luxury brand Louis Vuitton has made travelling an art form. Staying true to its origins as a trunk-maker, the maison introduced the Objets Nomades collection in 2012 to preserve its long tradition of creating exceptional travel objects. From a hammock and a deckchair, to a swing chair and a foldable stool, each limited-edition piece harkens back to the brand’s special orders of yesteryear, and given a contemporary update by some world’s best design minds. These designers work hand in hand with the house’s creative artisans, tapping on a 163-year heritage of traditional techniques and craft, to produce spectacular creations that embody the spirit of a life well travelled. This year, Louis Vuitton welcomes two new designers, India Mahdavi and Tokujin Yoshioka, into the fold, and they join design luminaries Atelier Oï, Maarten Baas, Barber and Osgerby, the Campana Brothers, Damien Langlois-meurinne, Nendo, Gwenaël Nicolas, Raw Edges, Patricia Urquiola and Marcel Wanders to embark on new adventures with the brand. The collection also sees 10 new additions, which were unveiled at the Salone del Mobile in Milan in April, bringing the number to 26 Objets Nomades in total. Dutch design icon Wanders presents his abstract interpretation of two signature motifs: the malletage quilting pattern, as seen on the leather seat of the Lune rocking chair, takes inspiration from the legendary Louis Vuitton trunks, while the maison’s diamond-shaped monogram makes an appearance in the Diamond screen, which can be suspended from its metal frame or a ceiling. Also taking references from the monogram petal is Japanese designer Yoshioka with the Blossom stool, which is available in black and white, as well as a gold-chromed version. Brazilian designers, the Campana Brothers take whimsy to another level with their playful cloud-shaped Bomboca sofa, which is named after the giant shell of Boticelli’s Venus painting; while Swiss design practice Atelier Oï returns with three new pieces, including a steel-framed Belt chair wrapped in leather straps that resemble belts.
COLOUR CHARM
What we are taken by is the striking jolt of blue that is the Talisman table by Mahdavi. No surprise since colour is the architect and designer’s calling card. One simply has to scroll through her