Prepare to dive into a captivating underwater world! Uchronia, the innovative design studio, has crafted a mesmerizing suite at the prestigious Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park in London. This artistic endeavor, unveiled ahead of the Frieze Art Fair, transforms the hotel's signature celadon-green shade into an immersive aquatic experience.
But here's where it gets intriguing: Uchronia's founder, Julien Sebban, reveals their creative process. "We wanted to reinterpret Mandarin Oriental's iconic color, developed with Pantone, and create an underwater realm inspired by the beauty of the sea."
And this is the part most people miss: Uchronia's vision extends beyond aesthetics. They aimed to showcase British craftsmanship, collaborating with local studios to craft unique pieces. "We highlighted British talent by working with incredible artisans to create fun and functional designs," Sebban explains.
Among the standout features are Govindia Hemphill's moire fabrics, mimicking dripping water, and curtains inspired by coral formations. The bedroom showcases furniture made from extruded plastic by James Shaw, while the lounge boasts a resin desk and a bench resembling corals. The bathroom adds a touch of elegance with glassware designed by Jochen Holz.
"Our goal was to blend the traditional Mandarin Oriental style with a modern twist, bringing joy and innovation," Sebban concludes.
So, is Uchronia's interpretation a refreshing take on hotel design, or does it miss the mark? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion!
