We are all aware of awe-inspiring ceiling design in iconic public spaces, like the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, the Library of Congress in Washington, the blue Mosque in Istanbul or the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne to name a few, however, we may forget that the ceiling is a vital part of a well-rounded residential design. When taking a harder look at the ceiling as a focal point, I was honored to sit down with Philippe Courtois, CEO of Atelier Premiere, the world’s leading decorative painting firm. Known for their exquisite, intricate work on historical sites, palaces, embassies, educational institutions and beyond, Atelier Premiere sets the standard for fine work in exquisite places.
Atelier Premiere started in Paris 30-years ago, in the famed Meriguet-Carrere house. There, a select group of master painters and gilders perfected their use of ancient techniques, while learning to incorporate newer handworking trends. Atelier Premiere quickly made a name for itself by perfecting surface preparation and making clients’ seemingly impossible dreams a reality. Today, many of those early employees remain and continue to incorporate newer techniques into their work, staying committed to traditional practices, yet welcoming new ideas. This keeps the firm’s aesthetic polished, innovative and unparalleled in quality. Atelier Premiere’s team of 50 longtime, impeccably trained craftsman come from all over the world and specialize in finishes including patina, parchment, murals, and more. These skilled craftsmen train new craftsmen on-site through workshops, guaranteeing the firm’s workforce consistently maintains the highest standards.
The company has performed restorative work for historical monuments and luxury homes, including the White House. They have executed notable projects in Versailles, the Paris Opera House, and even refurbished the ceiling in the French Embassy in New York. Globally, they own 45 companies and boast 1,100 contractors and artisans with the Atelier Premiere’s exclusive training. They are number one in the world for their ceiling work, which features plaster, gold leafing, metal, leather, and other high-quality materials. Clients include Jacques Grange, Frank de Biasi, and Lois Lisboa.
Although Atelier Premiere specializes in the ornate, Philippe Courtois reminds us that intentionally using the ceiling as a part of one’s interior design does not have to mean commissioning a mural. Rather, small tonal shifts can create depth and dimension. Courtois points out that renowned designer Jacques Grange is well-known for his blue ceilings, painted so they are reminiscent of the sky in Paris—the City of Lights. The ceiling is like a shadow, a real part of the decor. Courtois also explains that another way to leverage subtle artwork in ceiling design is to use a delicate sketch. Referring to a drawing “La Mort du Poete “ of French poet / writer Jean Cocteau (pictured below) he says, “In this room, anyone who enters may not notice the ceiling design at first, focusing instead on the walls and sumptuous wooden floor. That is fine.” Courtois added, “We don’t see it right away when we enter the room, once we do discover it, we are surprised. . . .it adds some depth to the room design.”
Processed with VSCO with lv01 preset
If you wish to be a bit more bold with design, of course, Courtois encourages pushing the boundaries. And the options are endless. Atelier Premiere has perfected the technique of hand painting a mural on tissue thin canvas and painstakingly cutting it out with a surgical knife. The canvas’ edges are finished onsite and the mural is adhered to the ceiling for a seamless, painted on look. Additionally, Courtois was able to give me an overview of Atelier Premier’s innovative cold metalization techniques, offering limitless texture options and a wide range of metallic colors. This gives a homeowner the ability to imbue a sense of elegance while maintaining control of the room’s mood. Metallics infuse a master bedroom with a sense of warmth, while cooling a more public space, like an entryway or dining room. If a bold ceiling speaks to you, but metallics do not, options are still plentiful. Atelier Premiere now utilizes 3D printing to create unique, custom wall finishes that add infinite depth and texture.
When I interview high end artisans and product makers, I love to ask whether they see trends in hospitality or in retail spaces that may be carried into residential projects. However, Courtois notes that he is experiencing the opposite. With his high-end retail clients, like The Row, pictured below, Courtois is finding that retailers are looking to pull from home design trends, offering customers a sense of comfort and overall relaxation. The Row’s trendy flagship retail shop in New York City is located in a private townhouse. This design approach begins with intentional space planning and incorporates pieces that encourage relaxation, like luxurious, plush couches, pieces of art, a stunning dining room table, and plantlife. Every floor has a purpose, from the first to the third floor, and each choice is deliberate. Jacques Grange designed the space with multiple rooms, each dedicated to different luxury fashion, art and beauty lines available in the shop. This immersive experience lowers customers’ stress levels, which often leads to greater spending.
Of course, as Philippe and I rounded out our conversation, the topic shifted to sustainability in design. Courtois was happy to share that Atelier Premiere is moved by the mission to improve our planet’s overall health. “It is of utmost importance to incorporate eco-friendly materials and products into the design residential and public spaces. For the good of the planet.” When asked about Atelier Premier’s practices, Courtois added, “We use ancient techniques and eco friendly products, including plaster made with stone powder, marble powder, and water based paint.”
Processed with VSCO with a6 preset
Additionally, the company uses a technique known as Peinture à la colle de peau in their designs that require glue. This is a natural adhesive derived from the skin of a rabbit.
I am thrilled to see the exciting ways Atelier Premiere continues to surprise and inspire us with their work in high end interiors.
