Written by Curio
Design Diaries: Le Berre Vevaud
The interior architecture duo talks responsible design, the power of collaboration and more.
Written by Curio
Tapping into a myriad of design movements, from the timeless sophistication of Art Deco, the avant-garde spirit of Bauhaus, and the poetic nuances of the Memphis era, Le Berre Vevaud favours organic, sensual forms, simple tailor-made shapes, and the boundless interplay of materials and colours.
We caught up with founders, Raphaël Le Berre and Thomas Vevaud to uncover the brand’s beginnings as an architecture studio, the driving force behind their own furniture line, and the crucial role that sustainability plays in the duo’s impactful designs.
Can you tell us a bit more about the brand, and both your journeys into the design industry?
Le Berre Vevaud, stemmed from our mutual love for design and architecture. It all began during our studies when we discovered our shared passion for crafting spaces that blend functionality with aesthetics.
After exploring various professional paths, we decided to combine our talents and establish our own design agency. Our goal was to combine our diverse experiences and identities, forming a distinctive design universe in Paris.
Failing to find what we envisioned, we took matters into our own hands, creating furniture that seamlessly integrates with our projects. This initiative led to the birth of our own line and the opening of our gallery in Paris's Carré Rive Gauche.
How do you approach your design process, and are there any particular themes or inspirations that consistently influence your work?
Our design process is driven by a constant quest for innovation while respecting traditional craftsmanship. We don't impose a fixed vision; rather, we strive to understand each project's context deeply.
Our style intertwines precision and creativity, enhanced by splashes of colour and distinctive geometries. We draw inspiration from a multitude of sources, including architects and designers of the 1940s, modernism, and contemporary creators like Ado Chale, Achille Castiglioni, and Eero Saarinen.
As designers, sustainability and ethical practices are increasingly important. How do you incorporate these principles into your design process and business practices?
At Le Berre Vevaud, quality in craftsmanship and materials is paramount. We prioritise sustainability and ethical practices by focusing on producing locally, thereby reducing environmental impact, supporting French artisans, and ensuring high-quality production that results in pieces that withstand the test of time.
Our collaboration is exclusively with artisans who possess exceptional artisanal and industrial expertise recognised by the national EPV label. This ensures that every piece we create is crafted with precision and care, meeting the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
When it comes to materials, we are meticulous in our selection process. For instance, we often use Carrara Marble sourced from Blanc Carrare, France, renowned for its durability and timeless appeal. By using materials of such high quality, we not only guarantee longevity but also minimise the need for replacements, thus reducing waste and environmental impact.
Our production is primarily based on a made-to-order model to avoid overproduction and unnecessary waste. It allows our artisans to focus on each piece individually, ensuring that every item we create meets our exacting standards. By incorporating these practices into our design process and business model, we are committed to not only creating beautiful and enduring pieces but also minimising our environmental footprint and contributing positively to the communities and artisans we work with.
Collaboration often plays a significant role in design projects. Can you discuss any memorable collaborations you've been a part of and the impact they've had on your work?
We continuously collaborate with our artisans as they reinforce our commitment to traditional craftsmanship and elevate the quality of our creations.
Collaborations not only expand our creative horizons but also enrich our projects with diverse perspectives and expertise. Each collaboration leaves a lasting impact, shaping our work and driving us towards continuous innovation. Some notable mentions include Dior.
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