Header: The National Gallery. Photo: Edmund Sumner
L’Observatoire International has officially opened the doors to its new London office, a move that further anchors the studio in the world’s creative capitals, alongside New York, Paris, and Seoul. This new chapter strengthens their presence in Europe and underscores their long-held belief that light is at the heart of every experience.
The UK expansion comes as no surprise for a practice with an ever-growing portfolio across Europe and the Middle East. Over the years, the studio has contributed its poetic and precise vision to some of London’s most iconic projects, from the National Gallery to Harrods and Claridge’s, making the city a natural next step in its evolution.
“Opening an office in London is both a strategic and symbolic step for L’Observatoire International,” says founder Hervé Descottes. “It is an opportunity to solidify our presence more within Europe but also to ensure we keep working truly internationally. Since then we have worked on many notable projects, from museums such as the National Gallery, fabulous retail projects such as Selfridges and Harrods facade, and many hospitality and residential projects, including Claridges, the Connaught, The Emory, and many more. Establishing a permanent presence here now feels especially meaningful. London, with its strong connections and rich history in design, is a natural position for us to base our team, for L’Observatoire International and our global journey.”
The London office will be led by Project Director Leah Xandora, who brings nearly a decade of experience with L’Observatoire International. Known for her sensitive and rigorous approach to light, Leah has been instrumental in delivering some of the studio’s landmark projects.
“Having a dedicated team in London allows us to be more closely engaged with the projects and exciting work taking place in the UK, Europe and the Middle East,” says Xandora. “It’s a valuable opportunity to strengthen our relationships with collaborators from another global position, both internationally and UK based. While our team has had the experience in working ‘internationally’ with these regions, the importance of a strong locality and on site engagement with a project cannot be underestimated; a most notable example being our work on the refurbishment of the Sainsbury Wing at the National Gallery — a project that embodies the kind of architectural dialogue and cultural collaboration we’re excited to continue from our new London base.”
Among their recent UK projects are the Sainsbury Wing at the National Gallery with Selldorf Architects, Harrods façades in Knightsbridge, Estelle Manor with Roman and Williams, ABC Kitchens by Jean-Georges at The Emory with Rémi Tessier, Claridge’s Hotel with Sylvain Dubuisson, The Row’s London flagship with Selldorf Architects, and the Jean-Georges Restaurant at The Connaught with John Heah.
With its London office now open, L’Observatoire International continues its mission of shaping spaces and experiences through light, from one global city to the next.
