L’Observatoire International, the award-winning lighting design studio founded by Hervé Descottes, is proud to announce the opening of its new office in London. This milestone marks a significant expansion for the studio, reinforcing its presence across global creative capitals—from New York to Paris, Seoul, and now, London.
As a studio rooted in the belief that light shapes experience, L’Observatoire International’s expansion into the UK reflects a continued commitment to collaboration, innovation, and excellence in architectural lighting design. With a growing portfolio of work across the UK and Europe, the London office is a natural next step in the evolution of the practice.
Hervé Descottes commented, “Opening an office in London is both a strategic and symbolic step for L’Observatoire International. It is an opportunity to solidify our presence more within Europe but also to ensure we keep working truly internationally. Since then we have worked on many notable projects, from museums such as the National Gallery, fabulous retail projects such as Selfridges and Harrods facade, and many hospitality and residential projects, including Claridge’s, the Connaught, The Emory, and many more.” He continued, “Establishing a permanent presence here now feels especially meaningful. London, with its strong connections and rich history in design, is a natural position for us to base our team, for L’Observatoire International and our global journey.”
The new office will be led by Leah Xandora, project director. Leah brings nearly a decade of experience with L’Observatoire International, leading landmark projects with a thoughtful, precise, and sensitive approach to light.
Leah Xandora shared, “Having a dedicated team in London allows us to be more closely engaged with the projects and exciting work taking place in the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. It’s a valuable opportunity to strengthen our relationships with collaborators from another global position, both internationally and U.K. based.” She continued, “While our team has had the experience in working ‘internationally’ with these regions, the importance of a strong locality and on site engagement with a project cannot be underestimated; a most notable example being our work on the refurbishment of the Sainsbury Wing at the National Gallery—a project that embodies the kind of architectural dialogue and cultural collaboration we’re excited to continue from our new London base.”
Recent Projects in the U.K.
- The Sainsbury Wing at the National Gallery, in collaboration with Selldorf Architects
- Harrods facades in Knightsbridge
- Estelle Manor, in collaboration with Roman and Williams
- ABC Kitchens by Jean-Georges at The Emory, in collaboration with Rémi Tessier
- Claridge’s Hotel, in collaboration with Sylvain Dubuisson
- The Row’s London flagship, in collaboration with Selldorf Architects
- Jean-Georges Restaurant at The Connaught, in collaboration with architect John Heah
About L’Observatoire International
Founded by Hervé Descottes in 1993, L’Observatoire International is a multi-award-winning, leading global lighting design firm that collaborates with the most renowned architects and design firms in the world. Emphasizing innovation, thought-leadership, and partnership with every client, the pioneering firm has led the lighting design and art direction for dynamic projects, revealing the aesthetic qualities for interior and exterior spaces that range from museum and cultural institutions, performing arts centers, and retail interiors to restaurants, libraries, higher-education centers, private residences, and luxury commercial properties. As an architectural design firm, L’Observatoire International leverages light as a medium to heighten and transform architectural intentions. The firm has mastered its unique ability to utilize light to create an unparalleled immersive atmosphere.
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