For Winter 2024, Designer Francis Sultana takes us on a journey to St Moritz. An icon of Alpine glamour since the 1920s nestled in the Engadin valley, its unique topography of ice lakes, set beneath the majestic backdrop of snow-capped pine-covered mountains, has provided the inspiration for Sultana's latest collection of furniture and lighting.
"I have been visiting St Moritz for many years and the specialist Engadin crafts skills that you find in the interiors of the 17th and 18th century farmhouses are exquisite.
I wanted to recreate that sense of craftsmanship, that most wonderful tactile element of the carved wood, but coupled with the finest upholstery and bronze detailing.
We have worked with specialists across the UK and Europe to create this collection, that has the sense of Engadin tradition at its heart but reinterpreted for a global contemporary audience."
Sultana's delight in these humble vernacular elements became the core principle for the designs he created, merging with his distinctive sleek forms. The collection embraces a series in oak, including a cabinet, chest of drawers, dining table and stools that all pay homage to the tradition of wood carving.
A console, banquette, coffee table, stools, bedside and nesting tables incorporate Sultana's signature patinated bronze detailing, mirroring the topography of the rocks of the Alps. Vellum-covered hardwood and glass detailing mimic the glistening icy surfaces of the Engadin Lakes. The Sanam series includes organic and highly fluid pieces: an armchair, daybed, stools, ottoman, sofa and dining chairs combine soft curves inspired by the snowy banks of the famous Cresta Run. Table and floor lamps with sculptured bronze bases and tweed effect shades share an affinity with the towering pines on the hillsides. Rich upholstery in coloured mohair, fur and bespoke bullion tweeds offer a reference to the style and sophistication of St Moritz's winter visitors.
The colours (sage, celadon and white) within the St Moritz collection reflect the ice, water, snow and green pines. Tweeds with leather and ribbon have been made bespoke by couture ateliers in France. The finest alpaca mohair has been used across the daybed, sofa and armchair, offering the ultimate sensual experience. St Moritz, like its namesake, is discreet, elegant and as with all Sultana collections of furniture, completely luxurious.
As a pioneer of winter tourism, St. Moritz (at 1,856 m.a.s.l) blends adventure, culture, and exclusive hospitality in a breathtaking natural setting. With an impressive selection of international galleries, it's also a major destination for art and design enthusiasts.
David Gill,London
2-4 King Street, St. James's, SW1Y 6QP
Tue 5 Nov 2024 to Fri 20 Dec 2024
Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm