Mentored by Sydney Toldano, CEO of Christian Dior, Simoëns is the new darling of French fashion editors – LVMH have just taken a stake in his brand, and he has already been compared to a young Yves Saint Laurent. Simoëns was briefed by Les Sources des Caudalie to use the suite, set in a summerhouse on stilts over a lake, as a creative workshop. The result is characterised by contrast: black against white, matt against gloss, plain against print – all united by greens and blues throughout. Furnishings include a Pietro Arosio lounger, Charles Eames armchair and UV wall lighting in a chicken’s foot pattern – a nod to Simoëns’ latest catwalk collection. Panelled mirrors, lampshades and cupboard doors reference the trademark symbol of the bar-code, giving a clean graphic modernity to the suite. Elegance, attention to detail and deep comfort combine with quality in a suite that is at once fun and relaxed, in keeping with the atmosphere of Les Sources de Caudalie.
Les Sources de Caudalie is set in the heart of the family owned Château Smith Haut Lafitte Grand Crus vineyard near Bordeaux, home to a Michelin starred restaurant and the original Caudalie Vinothérapie spa. The hotel is inspired by the concept of the ‘French Paradox’, whereby the diet and lifestyle of Southwest France is seen as conducive to good health, with statistics proving the positive effects of wine consumption.
