L’Observatoire International Expands with London Office, Eyes Global Growth
Last month in Paris, I had the pleasure of interviewing Hervé Descottes on camera, founder of L’Observatoire International. We discussed his philosophy that lighting should shape, not overshadow, the human experience. A few weeks later, I followed up with an afternoon visit to the firm’s New York office, where I met with Benjamin Légier, Director of Communications, and gained a deeper understanding of their impressive global growth.
A Strategic Move into London
On 16 July, L’Observatoire International officially announced the opening of its London office. This marks a significant milestone in the studio’s expansion, further enhancing its presence in New York, Paris, and Seoul. The new location, based at The Ink Rooms in Clerkenwell, strengthens their foothold in Europe and broadens their reach in the UK and Middle East.
Hervé called the London office both “strategic and symbolic.” He explained, “It allows us to solidify our presence in Europe while continuing to work internationally.” The studio has already completed high-profile UK projects such as the Sainsbury Wing at the National Gallery, the façade of Harrods, and hospitality landmarks like Claridge’s and Maison Estelle. Their expanding client base made a permanent London presence a natural next step.
Leah Xandora, a Project Director with nearly a decade at L’Observatoire International, will lead the new office. She emphasized the importance of local engagement: “Being on-site allows us to build stronger relationships and create more responsive designs.”
Spotlight on Paris: Fondation Cartier
During my visit with Benjamin, he shared updates on one of the firm’s most ambitious projects to date—the new Fondation Cartier museum in Paris. Located directly across from the Louvre, this major cultural institution is set to open in mid-October. The project is a collaboration with renowned architect Jean Nouvel.
Benjamin described it as the firm’s top project this year. “It’s going to be the event of the year in the art world,” he told me. Designing the lighting presented a rare challenge. The building features full-height glass façades—unusual for a museum. “Too many museums block out natural light,” Benjamin said. “Here, we had to find a way to work with it, not against it.”
Solenn Borchers, the Paris-based Project Director, is leading the Fondation Cartier effort. The project showcases L’Observatoire International’s distinctive ability to utilize light as a creative tool while respecting architectural intent.
The L’Observatoire team at the Targetti Presentation in Paris
A Global Studio, A Tight-Knit Team
Despite its international presence, L’Observatoire International remains relatively lean. The U.S. team includes 20 to 25 lighting designers. The London office, just beginning, currently includes two designers, with a third expected soon. Paris functions more fluidly but continues to support significant work, particularly in cultural and institutional sectors.
From lighting Annabelle Selldorf’s Frick collection to landmark projects on three continents, L’Observatoire International continues to push boundaries. The opening of the London office is not just an expansion—it’s a statement of intent. The studio remains grounded in its belief that lighting should elevate architecture and connect people to place, wherever in the world they may be.
Go Deeper: Celebrating Three Decades with L’Observatoire International: An Evening with Hervé Descottes