The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, A Belmond Train, Europe, introduces their newest sleeper carriage, expertly designed by the world-famous Artist JR. Named L’Observatoire, this carriage is said to be a moving artwork, or a “studio-on-wheels”, professionally curated by JR and inspired by elements of astronomical observatories and Renaissance Europe. L’Observatoire is scheduled to join the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express in March 2025.
In collaboration with Atelier Philippe Allemand, who has worked on the marquetry of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express since 1997, JR has reimagined the design in the L’Observatoire, creating fresh motifs across the carriage. The L’Observatoire is a curious experience, it takes guests into the creative mind of the artist as the carriage is adorned with personal touches. It is also filled with hidden touchpoints, a surprise to the guests and making the journey of uncovering these mysterious, hidden points an exciting one, bringing out the guests’ inner child.
The interior of the carriage consists of a bedroom with a free-standing bathtub, an adjoined bathroom, a lounge, a library and a hidden Tea Room. Inspired by astronomy, oculus-shaped skylights are placed on the ceiling of the bedroom and Tea Room, letting guests gaze at the sky as the carriage courses through the tracks. The bedroom is wrapped in green leather scalloping that mimics leaves and gives the space a natural feel. Then there is the stainedglass art by Michael Mayer in cooperation with JR, which illustrates the classic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express landscape, infused with JR’s surreal imagination.
The hallway is decorated with various original photographs by JR, and the lounge can transform into a private dining area. With rounded furniture and a cozy daybed at window level, this space evokes a comfortable air where guests can relax, enjoy the company of others and look over the window and admire the moving landscape. The carriage also boasts a library filled with books and vinyl records, perfect to enjoy literature and music.
An interesting addition to the carriage is the hidden Tea Room, only accessible through a secret door in the library. Found in the Tea Room is a miniature train installation, along with several other miniatures from JR’s Giant series, such as “Giants, Rising Up, 2023,” and “Giants, Kikito, 2017”. The space is engaging, and urges guests to inspect and uncover, making the journey of slow travel an eventful one.
“The carriages have travelled through countless decades and eras – so I wanted to find a new way to approach them, maintaining the connection to this deep story. 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,” says JR.
Gary Franklin, the Vice Presidents Trains & Cruises at Belmond says, “Intended as an ‘artwork in motion’, L’Observatoire will offer an unparalleled blend of art, luxury, and immersive storytelling. JR’s thoughtful integration of exceptional craftsmanship is evident throughout, resulting in a truly unique and transformative travel experience. Alongside our pre-existing room categories – Historical, Suite, and Grand Suite – this launch underscores Belmond’s commitment to perpetuating the art of slow luxury.”
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