Jean-Philippe Nuel is a name whispered in the hallowed halls of high-end hospitality. This renowned designer, with a knack for blending luxury and lifestyle, has become a force in the world of hotels and furniture.
Nuel’s journey into the world of design was practically preordained. Born into a family of creators, he was drawn to the art of design from a young age. Architecture, he explains, is a profession that requires a wide-ranging curiosity, encompassing artistic creativity, social awareness, and an understanding of cultural trends. Each project, he believes, reflects the evolving tapestry of society.
A Style With a Unique “Twist”
When asked about his signature style, Nuel insists that he avoids repetition. He prefers to immerse himself in the unique context of each project, drawing inspiration from the surrounding environment. While his work spans diverse projects, a common thread of elegance and a touch of “irreverence” shines through. He likens his approach to a writer who, while retaining their distinct style, crafts a new story with each creation.
From Architect to Hotel Guru
Nuel’s first hotel project, the Clos Médicis, was a serendipitous collaboration with a childhood friend. The project, a complete renovation of a Parisian hotel, was a challenge, but it catapulted Nuel’s career into the world of luxury hospitality. He quickly gained recognition and now works with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Hilton, Accor, Marriott, and InterContinental.
The Essence of Luxury Hospitality
For Nuel, true luxury in hospitality is about pursuing excellence in every detail. He believes that a luxury hotel should embody a strong aesthetic presence, reflecting its cultural context. He shuns “vulgar luxury,” opting for a subtle elegance that prioritizes quality materials and meticulous attention to detail. The key, he says, is to ensure that every element contributes to a sense of coherence and meaning.
The Power of Furniture Design
Nuel’s work extends beyond interiors to include furniture design. He views these collaborations, with brands like Concrete LCDA, Ligne Roset, and Pierre Frey, as opportunities to create custom pieces that perfectly complement a project’s aesthetic and identity. Furniture, he believes, offers a powerful tool to harmonize the different scales of a project, from architecture to individual objects.
Inspiration and the Pursuit of Emotion
Nuel finds inspiration in the world around him, from literature and cinema to everyday experiences. He views projects as characters in a novel, each with its own unique personality and story to tell. He sees cinema as a source of inspiration, where a project is akin to the opening scenes of a film, inviting viewers into a captivating atmosphere. Ultimately, his goal is to create spaces that evoke emotions and leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Every Project, a Piece of the Heart
Nuel recognizes that every project, from the smallest to the grandest, holds a special place in his heart. Just like a parent, he is unable to favor one child over another, for each represents a unique creation and a piece of his artistic journey.
