Orient Express unveils ultra-luxurious Presidential Suite

By Dean Murray via SWNS

Agatha Christie would be impressed: the Orient Express has unveiled its ultra-luxurious new Presidential Suite.

The iconic train is synonymous with glamour and featured in the author's timeless murder mystery.

Now, the modern well-heeled can look forward to a sleek update of the long-distance passenger train service originally created in 1883.

French firm Accor is restoring original cars dating from the 1920s-1930s, under the eye of architect Maxime d'Angeac, known for carrying out prestigious restoration and decoration projects for major luxury houses.

Launched at the Design Miami/2022 fair, a visualization shows the suite occupying an entire train car of the former Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express.

Visualization of the Orient Express Presidential Suite. (Accor via SWNS)

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The Presidential Suite is described as a space of "unprecedented dimensions: 69 feet long and 9 feet wide."

The 55sqm space was designed to accommodate a theatrical “4 Column room,” adorned with the beautiful panels and a gas fireplace.

A spacious bedroom offers high-end decor, wrapped in embroidered velvet, decorated with custom-made furniture and home to an elegant bathroom; a tribute to French furniture maker Albert-Armand Rateau.

True to its heritage, the Presidential Suite opens onto a unique collector's item: an “LX” luxury cabin dating from 1929, with two beds, adorned with solid mahogany and Nelson and Prou marquetry, found aboard the Nostalgie-Istanbul-Orient-Express and fully restored.

Accor say the ultimate surprise is the Cabinet de l'Égoïste, a secret room "dedicated to good vibes and epicurean festivities."

Design Miami/ guests can discover the legendary train via an original immersive experience complete with virtual reality.

Architect Maxime d'Angeac said: "The Orient Express Presidential Suite captures the essence of the future train.

"It is a work carved out of excess, inspired by the geniuses and pioneers of Art Deco, Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann and Armand-Albert Rateau, and by the importance of refinement and the absolute finesse of detail.

"It is a suite where travelers can experience history, extreme luxury and ultimate comfort all at once."

Chairman and CEO of Accor Sébastien Bazin said: "The Orient Express legend unveils its secrets at the heart of the major international design fair: Design Miami/.

"At the crossroads of creativity and healthy imagination, Orient Express has found the best setting to unveil the exclusive decor of its Presidential Suite that will mark the history of train travel and continue the Orient Express legend with authenticity and unparalleled luxury."