Jean Philippe-Nuel, a renowned French architect and designer, views luxury as an art form. For two decades, he has crafted stunning spaces for some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts, infusing each project with the unique spirit of its location. His creations transcend borders, spanning continents and even oceans. One of his most recent ventures involved designing the opulent interiors of a Ponant Cruises ship, blending futuristic elements with undeniable glamour.
Nuel’s passion for design is deeply rooted in his heritage; he was raised in a family where creativity was a central part of life. His talent for visual storytelling is evident in his work, which seamlessly blends his innate artistic abilities with his extensive worldly experiences. His portfolio, spanning two decades, is a testament to his exceptional talent, captivating audiences from everyday travelers to the most discerning global citizens.
A Glimpse into the Mind of a Design Mastermind
Andrew Joseph: What’s your morning routine?
Jean Philippe-Nuel: It usually involves a brief moment of meditation after waking up.
Andrew Joseph: How do you find balance between work and life?
Jean Philippe-Nuel: Honestly, balance is a constant challenge. Right now, I’m on a three-day vacation, but I’m still answering your questions! The upside is that I’m on an island with a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s inspiring to be surrounded by such beauty.
Andrew Joseph: What’s your favorite time of day?
Jean Philippe-Nuel: Nighttime, especially if I can see the stars.
Andrew Joseph: Who would you like to write your obituary?
Jean Philippe-Nuel: I’m starting to think about it now so I’m not caught off guard!
Andrew Joseph: What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done?
Jean Philippe-Nuel: Exploring the forbidden sections of the Parisian catacombs at night. I crawled through tunnels surrounded by skeletons, got lost, and eventually found my way back before dawn. It was quite an experience.
Andrew Joseph: If you had an extra hour in the day, what would you do?
Jean Philippe-Nuel: I would spend it on something I didn’t have time for: reading or rereading a classic of French literature, painting, sailing, or maybe just doing nothing.
Andrew Joseph: What’s the best advice you’d give to your teenage self?
Jean Philippe-Nuel: Don’t listen too much to advice! Live your dreams to the fullest and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
Andrew Joseph: How do you define beauty?
Jean Philippe-Nuel: For me, beauty is feminine and synonymous with elegance, both physical and moral. It’s also deeply connected to intelligence.
From Design Visionary to Master of Hospitality
Jean Philippe-Nuel’s design journey began in Paris, where he established his studio twenty years ago. He quickly gained recognition for his ability to create unique and captivating atmospheres within high-end luxury hotels. His name became synonymous with excellence in the hospitality industry, with his work gracing four and five-star hotels across the globe. He’s collaborated with some of the world’s most prestigious hotel groups, including Marriott, Hilton, Accor, Starwood, Ascott, and Intercontinental, consistently bringing his signature style and personality to each project.
Nuel’s success isn’t simply a stroke of luck. His passion for design was instilled from a young age, nurtured within a family of architects and art enthusiasts. His unwavering commitment to creating memorable experiences for guests is reflected in his work, transforming ordinary hotel stays into extraordinary moments.
A Legacy of Inspired Spaces
Nuel’s portfolio boasts a diverse range of projects, showcasing his versatility and creativity. He’s transformed historic buildings into luxurious havens, including Le 5 Codet, a hidden gem nestled near the Invalides Dome in Paris. He also breathed new life into the iconic Molitor, an Art Deco swimming pool turned into a vibrant social club and hotel. His work spans from the Law Court in Nantes, now a thriving four-star resort, to the Grand Hôtel Dieu, a historical gem in Lyon.
Beyond hotels, Nuel’s expertise extends to office interiors, product designs, and even flagships in Japan. His twenty years of experience have enabled him to develop strong conceptual frameworks that elevate each project’s design. He meticulously incorporates the essence of a building’s history, transforming it into an inspiring space that reflects the city’s soul and its connection to the people who live there.
A Fusion of Style and Substance
Nuel’s American projects reflect his ability to skillfully blend the unique cultural aspects of the United States with a sophisticated European sensibility. His designs are infused with a subtle touch of boldness, adding a captivating element of style to the overall elegance of his work.
The consistent thread running through all of Nuel’s projects is his unwavering commitment to creating timeless elegance, free from unnecessary ornamentation. He believes in the power of simplicity, allowing the inherent beauty of the design to shine through. Nuel’s architectural style is truly unique, a signature that resonates with discerning travelers who seek a touch of luxury and refinement in their travel experiences.
