In this exclusive video produced by Dezeen, French architect Maxime d'Angeac reveals how his redesign of the historic Orient Express train ? its first update in almost a century ? aims to create "a new embassy of French luxury".
Launching in 2025, the interiors of the train cars were revealed in an immersive virtual reality (VR) exhibition called Orient Express Revelation, displayed during Paris art week between 17 to 21 October 2022.
The new design will be launched in 2025, marking its first update in 100 years
Hospitality group Accor selected D'Angeac based on his experience of carrying out restoration and decoration projects for brands such as Daum, Hermès, and Guerlain over the past 20 years. He was given the simple brief of "redesigning the most iconic train in the world." The new design is informed by 19th-century French design and is characterised by "contemporary luxury". It features rosewood details, marble-covered tables and bronze column capitals.
"This is the reinterpretation of a legendary train, conceived as a new embassy of French luxury, sublimated by the know-how and talents of the best French craftsmen," said D'Angeac.
The design includes a Bar Car with domed ceilings and bright green armchairs
The Bar Car features large domed skylights informed by Second Empire-style and an all-glass bar counter that pays tribute to French jeweller René Lalique, whose glassworks adorned the original Orient Express train.
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