Charlotte Butter, de Gournay’s PR & Marketing Manager, talks to BelleBeirut about the bespoke wallpaper and fabric company’s impressive projects, recent collaborations, and interest in the Middle East.
1- How would you introduce de Gournay to someone who does not know about it?
de Gournay is a family-run company that has cultivated an unrivalled reputation as specialist creators of hand painted wallpaper, fabrics and porcelain. Reviving ancient traditions and original 18th century techniques, the company employs a team of highly skilled artists to paint bespoke, luxury wallpapers. Known for the exquisite Chinoiserie wallpapers de Gournay also offer Japanese, Korean, and French panoramic collections along with a huge range of designs and techniques through collaborations with world-renowned designers.
Claud Cecil Gurney founded de Gournay in 1986, following an unsuccessful search for expert restoration of antique wallpaper for his family home. Having a long harboured interest in the arts and a passion for Chinese history, he decided to travel to where Chinoiereie wallpapers originated in the late 17th Century and investigate the possibility of working with local artists. He quickly discovered the traditional art of hand painting wallpaper had almost been completely abandoned. Not to be discourage, he widened his search locating individuals who wished to continue these traditions. Today there are four de Gournay studios. de Gournay’s ability to customize any of its designs enables it to fulfil the vision of each individual, no matter how complex; from hand-gilding 22ct gold leaf, to creating a custom colour to compliment a surrounding interior.
2- Based on what we know and can see in de Gournay’s work, Interior design is a true art. In your opinion, how has this art evolved since the company was founded 30 years ago?
Chinese wallpapers first appeared in Europe during the 17th century, adding momentum to the growing trend for papering walls. By the mid-18th century, it had become the height of fashion and many of the finest interiors in the world included Chinese taste in at least one room. And today it remains very popular. Clients love the idea that you can have art on your walls – bespoke and unique to your space and design desires. We too respond to a contemporary demand with our Japanese & Korean and Eclectic Collection. The possibilities today are endless, which is how we have evolved.
3- Can you tell us a bit about your most recent designs and collaborations?
A recent project was the Aquazzura collaboration was a huge success. We were providing wallpaper for Aquazzura Founder’s, Edgardo Osorio, apartment. With mutual enthusiasm we ended up combining our particular fields of expertise. Artwork took form and we created a tropical Chinoiserie motif for a beautiful line of shoes and a full-scale installation within their premises in Milan. A pink Spring Summer capsule collection in 2017 and again in blue earlier this year. Pumps, heels, mules, flats, and even a children’s collection; it was hugely popular. A true Cinderella moment!
4- You had a collaboration with Chanel for the Coco Mademoiselle film, can you tell us a bit about it from your perspective: how did it come about, how was the feedback?
I refer to Chanel’s Coco Mademoiselle advert with Keira Knightly often because it is such an iconic image that everyone seems to know and love – it oozes luxury and glamour. We have embarked on some incredible shoots and events; working with the Met Gala, Kate Moss to our most recent event at Houghton Hall in the UK. Endless possibilities!
5- What has brought de Gournay to the Middle East today?
I have learned from working internationally that interior-taste differs all around the globe. Bringing happiness to people’s lives by creating hand painted, colourful and bright interiors – it is wonderful to know we help people in a way find some form of refuge from the busy world. And we can do this anywhere, including the Middle East.
Have you/will you collaborate with Lebanese fashion houses? What do you think about the design scene in Lebanon?
We have never embarked on any Lebanese collaborations as such but that is not to say we never will! Lebanese designers are gaining global recognition. There is so much cultural inspiration, and a beautiful juxtaposition of old and new, emotional nostalgic design but also modern. I feel as though the interior design scene is open to new ideas and that is hugely exciting!
To know more about de Gournay, click here or visit their Instagram page here.
