Chanel-owned Studio MTX recently showcased its expertise in artisanal craft at the newly opened model apartment of Invisible Collections in New York. The Wertheimer brothers, who have been overseeing Chanel since 1996, have been committed to preserving the unique skills of French craftsmen. Studio MTX, one of the ateliers under Chanel’s Metiers building, specializes in Haute Couture embroidery and has expanded its craft to include interior design through its ‘Broderie Architecturale’ collection. As Studio MTX celebrates its eleventh year, it is now eager to enter the US market.
The two-day event, which took place at the Steinway Tower on West 57th Street in Manhattan, attracted the attention of press, designers, and VIP Chanel clients. Mathieu Bassée, the Head of Design at Studio MTX, provided visitors with a tour of the apartment and explained the various creations and their processes. Bassée believes that the time is ripe to penetrate the US market, as Studio MTX has established the necessary processes, sales force, and customer service to serve American clients. The event was held in an exquisitely curated apartment on the 76th floor, offering a breathtaking view of Central Park and accentuating the lifestyle and luxury associated with the Chanel brand.
This event comes at an interesting juncture when fashion and home design are increasingly converging. While many fashion brands are expanding into the realm of interiors, Chanel has only recently begun exploring the field of interior design. Bassée believes that Chanel’s fashion heritage can greatly contribute to interior design creations and potentially introduce new techniques and flavors into the fashion industry in the future.
One noteworthy aspect of Studio MTX’s creations is the incorporation of traditional handcrafting techniques with 3D printing technology. Although 3D printing is becoming more prevalent in the fashion industry, it is not commonly utilized in Chanel’s Haute Couture ateliers. According to Bassée, Chanel highly values and preserves centuries-old craftsmanship, relying on skilled artisans to tackle design challenges.
During the event, Bassée walked guests through the intricate processes involved in creating Studio MTX’s screens, wall hangings, and window decor. These designs feature unique metal shapes, delicate textiles combined with metal accents, and thin mesh panels. Bassée presented examples of Studio MTX’s work, including glass room screens created for Chanel’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue, screens depicting Cartier’s iconic panther, and a project involving a yacht that took into account the minor vibrations caused by the ship’s engines.
The modern aesthetic of Studio MTX’s designs seamlessly complemented the model apartment, which offered sweeping views of New York City. Bassée explained that the designs showcased in this apartment have a flatter design with gradient colors, while other creations can be customized to include varying colors, finishes, and textures to reflect historical elements.
In conclusion, the exhibition of Chanel-owned Studio MTX in the Invisible Collections model apartment in New York depicted the brand’s artisanal craftsmanship and emphasized its readiness to enter the US market. By combining traditional handcrafting techniques with innovative design, Studio MTX demonstrated its ability to create unique and luxurious interior designs. With Chanel’s rich fashion heritage, the brand is poised to make a significant impact on the interior design sector in the coming years.
Useful links:
1. Chanel Official Website
2. Invisible Collections Website
