Deep Dive in Design: An Artist's Approach to Design with Xavier Donnelly
Podcast Information:
- Title: Deep Dive in Design
- Host/Author: FREDERIC
- Episode: An Artist's Approach to Design with Xavier Donnelly
- Release Date: December 5, 2024
Overview
In this compelling episode of Deep Dive in Design, host Hudson Moore, Senior Design Editor at FREDERIC, engages in an insightful conversation with renowned designer Xavier Donnelly. Xavier, celebrated for creating iconic spaces such as Le Dive wine bar, Brasserie de Chat, and Dowlings at the Carlisle Hotel, shares his unique journey, design philosophy, and the evolution of the hospitality industry. The discussion delves into his artistic background, approach to design projects, experiences in the hospitality sector, and exciting upcoming ventures.
1. Introduction to Xavier Donnelly
Hudson Moore opens the episode by introducing Xavier Donnelly, highlighting his impressive portfolio and recent achievements, including his appointment as the Creative Director of Ash—a multidisciplinary studio known for notable projects like Hotel Peter and Paul in New Orleans, the Siren in Detroit, and Ulysses in Baltimore. Xavier has also launched a new wallpaper collection for Backdrop, inspired by his original artwork.
Quote:
"Welcome, Xavier." [00:58]
2. Xavier's Career Path
Xavier recounts his early aspiration to become an architect, instilled by a childhood fascination with buildings and spaces. He pursued his education at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), initially focusing on architecture but pivoting to sculpture after his foundational year. This shift allowed him greater creative freedom, shaping his versatile approach to design.
Quote:
"I just didn't love how rigid and structured I think the architecture curriculum was. And I wanted something that had, you know, less boundaries." [01:38]
He emphasizes how his background in sculpture, devoid of strict rules, has been foundational in his ability to blend creativity with practical design in his projects.
3. Early Inspirations and Creative Background
Growing up in a creatively charged household, Xavier's parents owned a picture frame company, and his mother was an artist. This environment nurtured his artistic talents from a young age, with his childhood home doubling as a spacious studio. These early experiences deeply influenced his design sensibilities, particularly the recurring motif of a blue sky—a tribute to his mother's artistic touch on their home.
Quote:
"Our house was always an art project as well. My mom painted our bedroom ceiling and walls as a blue sky, which has become a recurring motif in my work." [07:13]
4. Xavier's Design Approach
Xavier describes his design process as narrative-driven, akin to writing a short story for each space. He meticulously researches the context and history, creating characters and scenarios that inform his design decisions. This storytelling approach ensures that each project has a unique identity and emotional resonance.
Quote:
"I almost have to like write a short story about the space or the project... how that narrative is really going to be told through all the decisions." [08:20]
He likens his process to directing a film set, where every element contributes to the overarching story, allowing for creative freedom and natural evolution of the space.
5. Designing for Hospitality vs. Residential Projects
When discussing the differences between hospitality and residential design, Xavier notes that his approach remains fundamentally consistent. In both scenarios, he strives to infuse a personal touch, making spaces feel curated by individuals rather than corporations. For hospitality projects, he emphasizes creating immersive and welcoming environments that feel like a home away from home, while also considering the practical aspects like high traffic and durability.
Quote:
"When you're in a hotel, I think you kind of do want it to feel like home a little bit, but somebody's very polished, sophisticated guest room." [10:53]
6. Current Trends in the Hospitality Industry
Xavier observes a significant shift in the hospitality sector towards creating transportive and immersive experiences. He aims to design spaces that act as escapes, offering guests a cinematic and authentic connection to the locality. This trend counters the rise of standardized experiences, such as those offered by large hotel chains and the Airbnb model, by emphasizing unique and personal narratives within each space.
Quote:
"I hate the term like, theme park, because that sounds cheesy, but you almost want it to be like you've left the day today, you're in this new place." [13:20]
He argues that today's successful hospitality designs are those that fully immerse guests in the local culture, providing a deeper and more meaningful experience.
7. Favorite Experiences in Hotels, Bars, and Restaurants
Xavier shares some of his most memorable experiences in hospitality spaces, including Moribar in Tokyo and Lotel in Marrakech. He appreciates venues with rich histories and layered stories, where every element contributes to the overall ambiance. These experiences highlight his belief in the importance of narrative and personal connection in design.
Quote:
"The places that I really love... are places that have a lot of history. There's a lot of layers to them." [15:48]
Moore adds his favorite dining experience at Stissing House, praising how the design elevated the overall atmosphere.
Quote:
"It's such a good one." [19:26]
8. Product Line Development with Ash
Transitioning from spatial design to product development, Xavier discusses the challenges and rewards of creating Ash's line of products, including robes, tote bags, and playing cards. He highlights the meticulous attention to quality and usability required in product design, ensuring that each item is both beautiful and functional.
Quote:
"They're very beautiful, but they're also all usable. So they're not just things that are going to sit on a shelf." [21:30]
9. Upcoming Projects and Excitement
Xavier shares his enthusiasm for upcoming projects, particularly the new Ash Hotel, Shenandoah Mansions, set to open in Richmond, Virginia. He expresses anticipation and nervousness as the project transitions from conceptual to tangible, emphasizing the collaborative effort with decorative painter Violet O'Neill Oliphant to create unique and beautiful moments within the hotel.
Quote:
"Everything is starting to materialize in a way that is so good and also so scary because it's not conceptual anymore." [22:26]
He also mentions his latest collaboration with Backdrop on a new wallpaper collection, aiming for a spring release.
Quote:
"We're going to release that to the world sometime soon, I hope. I think this spring." [25:06]
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Hudson Moore expressing admiration for Xavier's work and excitement for his future projects. Xavier's blend of artistic narrative and practical design offers a fresh perspective in the hospitality industry, emphasizing authenticity, immersion, and personal connection. His dedication to creating spaces that tell compelling stories sets a benchmark for designers aiming to craft meaningful and memorable environments.
Quote:
"Thank you so much for your time. I really appreciate you getting on our podcast today." [25:40]
Key Takeaways:
- Narrative-Driven Design: Xavier emphasizes storytelling in design, ensuring each space has a unique identity.
- Immersive Experiences: Current trends favor creating transportive environments that offer authentic and escapist experiences.
- Balancing Creativity and Practicality: Whether designing a hotel or a product line, maintaining high quality and functionality is paramount.
- Personal Connection: Infusing personal touches makes spaces feel curated and welcoming, distinguishing them from standardized environments.
- Continual Evolution: Xavier's upcoming projects reflect his commitment to pushing creative boundaries and evolving with the industry's trends.
This episode provides invaluable insights into the intersection of art and design within the hospitality sector, showcasing how a narrative approach can transform spaces into immersive and emotionally resonant experiences.