It's no secret that public transport (at least here in Australia), doesn't tend to have the most glamorous reputation. Purely functional and with little consideration for aesthetics; we'd be lying if we said we were rushing back to spend our morning commute squished amongst strangers. Half way across the world, however, things are playing out a little differently – yes, apparently a train ride can be chic. The mastermind behind it all? Wes Anderson, of course, who has recently decked out a carriage on a London train inspired by some of his most famous films.
Anderson is bringing his instantly recognisable aesthetic and love of symmetry to the Belmond British Pullman Train; transforming the carriage into an art deco dreamland. Naturally, the beloved director has drawn inspiration from films like The Grand Budapest Hotel and the upcoming The French Dispatch, to inform his design decisions.
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Anderson's makeover still maintains the design codes of the 1950s-built Cygnus carriage – which is Latin for 'swan'. The carriage is adorned in a swan theme, complimented with silver leaf on the car’s ceiling that creates a water-like reflection, with guests seated in roomy wing chairs that are upholstered in an emerald green patterned fabric and encased in sturdy wood frames.
The emerald theme stretches further than the physical decor; extending to matching crockery and swan-shaped champagne coolers for that extra touch. As for where the Anderson train will actually take you, the Belmond British Pullman Train takes travellers on luxurious day-trips to destinations across the UK, from Cardiff to Canterbury. The train was also once exclusively used for the of visiting heads of state, so you can only imagine luxury is at the forefront of the adventure.
Today, Belmond reveals an exclusive cinematic design partnership with film director Wes Anderson. Paying tribute to both the golden age of cinema and travel, Wes Anderson has reimagined Cygnus carriage aboard the British Pullman, A Belmond Train, England.https://t.co/G3FILPHtT6 pic.twitter.com/g18WTsSbsU
— Belmond (@belmond) October 11, 2021
If like us, you're a fan of Anderson, you'll know well that trains have always been a common theme throughout his films. Speaking to Architectural Digest about his most recent project, Anderson shared; “I have often had the chance to invent train compartments and carriages in my movies — so I was immediately pleased to say ‘yes' to this real life opportunity, and very eager to make something new while also participating in the process of preservation… igniting this endangered species of travel into a new golden era.”
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If the prospect of riding the Wes Anderson train (especially now that Australia is soon heading back to international travel), has you dreaming of locking eyes with Timothée Chalamet across the carriage; you can indulge in the artisanal five-course dining options for a hefty minimum $740 per person. Totally worth it.
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