Orient Express has unveiled a first look at its upcoming luxury train, L'Orient Express Train 2027, as part of a major exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris. The preview opened today within the 1925-2025: A Century of Art Deco exhibition, which explores the evolution and influence of the Art Deco movement over the past hundred years. The collection is displayed in the museum's Nave, where elements of the future train are presented alongside rare archival materials.
The project marks a new chapter in the history of the iconic locomotive, which was originally launched in 1883 by Belgian entrepreneur Georges Nagelmackers. Celebrating for its opulent design and service, it connected Paris to Constantinople (now Istanbul) and became a symbol of luxury travel in the early 20 century. The revival is being led by Accor Group, under CEO Sébastien Bazin, with architect Maxime d'Angeac serving as artistic director. D'Angeac, who has a background in scenography and a strong interest in Renaissance architecture, has overseen the development of the new design, with a vision that "connects heritage and modernity with an uncompromising attention to detail", according to the company.
Seventeen original carriages from the 1920s, discovered in 2015, are currently being restored in France. Rather than reproducing the original design, the project aims to reinterpret the carriages for the current era. The restoration process has involved 30 master artisans, including embroiderers, glassmakers, cabinetmakers and upholsterers. Each component is being crafted to combine historical aesthetics with modern functionality, including sustainable materials and advanced technology.
The exhibition also highlights the connection between the train's design and the Art Deco movement, drawing parallels between contemporary craftsmanship and the work of early 20-century designers such as Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann and Suzanne Lalique-Haviland.
The launch of L'Orient Express Train 2027 is part of a broader expansion of the brand. In spring 2025, the La Dolce Vita Orient Express train began operating in Italy; the brand's first hotel, Orient Express La Minerva, also welcomed guests for the first time in Rome this year, with another property, Palazzo Donà Giovannelli, scheduled to open in Venice in 2026. The Orient Express Corinthian, a large sailing yacht currently under construction in Saint-Nazaire, is planned to begin service in 2026 as well.
Food Desk