A Cinematic Ride Filmmaker Wes Anderson teams up with Belmond to bring his signature style to the British Pullman.
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Having already dabbled in the hospitality sector
symmetrical lines, colour palettes and Art
through the medium of film, Wes Anderson has
Nouveau style. References to the myth can be
now brought his inimitable style to the tracks,
found throughout the interiors, from the swan
partnering with Belmond to design a carriage on
detailing in the marquetry to the silver leaf on the
British Pullman.
ceiling to represent water. Tables are also topped
Honouring Belmond’s duty as ‘a custodian of timeless heritage’, the filmmaker – famed for hits
with a majestic solid silver champagne cooler in the shape of a swan.
such as The Grand Budapest Hotel, The Darjeeling
Paying tribute to the golden age of both cinema
Limited and The French Dispatch – looked to
and travel, Anderson’s design balances the
his own body of work for inspiration, marrying
historic origins of the 1950s Art Deco-inspired
it with a personal passion for craftsmanship.
carriage with his dream-like storytelling for
“I love trains! I have often had the chance to
a cinematic guest experience. The carriage
invent train compartments and carriages in my
also introduces two new private coupés for an
movies, so I was immediately pleased to say yes
elevated level of privacy.
to this real-life opportunity,” he comments. “I
Departing from London’s Victoria Station, the
was very eager to make something new while
British Pullman travels through the countryside
also participating in the process of preservation,
with dining options ranging from afternoon tea
which accompanies all the classic Belmond train
to five-course lunches that celebrate the culinary
projects. They are keeping something special
highlights of the towns and cities it passes
alive – igniting this endangered species of travel
through. Speaking about the collaboration,
into a new golden era.”
Arnaud Champenois, Senior Vice President of
Preservation was undoubtedly key for
Brand & Marketing at Belmond, comments: “We
Belmond, with the celebrated train best known
are always seeking new ways to remain relevant
for transporting passengers to another era via its
and create legendary adventures. It is our mission
authentic vintage carriages, each with a unique
to keep the travel dreams alive by collaborating
history and concept. Named after the Greek
with the most creative talents, who share our
God of Balance – often personified as a swan –
passion for design and craftsmanship. It has been
the Cygnus carriage is instantly recognisable as
a privilege to work with Wes Anderson who is one
a Wes Anderson design thanks to his signature
of the most captivating storytellers in the world.”
