Checking Out: Christian Lahoude

The portfolio on your website features some truly beautiful work. How do you define luxury retail design?
Luxury means using the most beautiful materials, all tailored specifically to the brand. It also means unique, commissioning artists to provide a look and feel that cannot be used by any other brand.

Is there a brand you regard as the top of the top?
I’m French, so that would be Chanel. I have always had an admiration for that brand, even as a child. It’s very French, it values craftsmanship and art.

Do you remember being inspired by design as a child?
Yes. My mother was a seamstress and I loved going to the store with her and touching the fabrics. She also had a Chanel suit. I just love the texture and the bit of sparkle. Now I can’t imagine my work without fabric. I like materiality, the beauty and texture of elegance. I have more memories and emotions of touch than feelings of space.

Was there a “dream come true” moment in your life?
I’d have to say it was my first job in New York with Peter Marino. I was fortunate to work closely with Peter, and also to work with Chanel. This allowed me to combine of both of my passions – fashion and architecture.

What brought you to the United States?
While studying architecture in Paris, I was fascinated by the way advanced technology was being used in performing arts, so I looked at some degrees that would focus on digital media. I received a grant from the French Academy of Architecture for master’s studies abroad and chose Harvard, which offered a degree in digital media. And I’ve stayed in the U.S.

Is there a Christian Lahoude brand?
I don’t know that I want there to be. There are things I like more than others, but what I enjoy most is to put myself into the client’s brain and understand the brand: its history, its runway experience, its iconic moments. I’m not creating a Christian Lahoude signature look, I’m bringing my knowledge and expertise to best represent the client’s brand.

How has that developed in your work?
At Gucci, I had the opportunity to collaborate with Creative Director Frida Giannini, translating the brand’s identity into architecture. This has helped form the approach I take with all of my clients, such as Alexander Wang, Jimmy Choo and Harrys of London.

Frenchman in New York

Can a Parisian find beauty and inspiration in New York?
Definitely. I love New York. It’s so open to the rest of the world. There’s a great richness and variety here.

What about the city inspires you aesthetically?
I love the way the lighting plays in and through the big buildings. When I return to New York and cross the bridges, seeing the city lit up and sparkling is wonderful.

So New York is home now?
Well, I live here now, I belong here now, but is it home yet? Maybe not. I’m still discovering it. But I can’t imagine living anywhere else.