Marie-Anne Derville, a designer with a unique approach to temporary spaces, has carved out a niche for herself in the world of fashion and interior design. Her journey began as a decorator and furniture buyer for the renowned interior designer Pierre Yovanovitch, but she sought a faster pace and more creative freedom. Five years after establishing her own studio, Derville has redefined her role as a scenographer, specializing in the art of designing temporary spaces.
What makes Derville's work stand out is her ability to create ephemeral decor that is both luxurious and functional. Her clients, including high-profile brands like Van Cleef & Arpels, Nordic Knots, and Nicolas Ghesquière, appreciate her attention to detail and her willingness to go the extra mile. For Ghesquière's recent runway shows, Derville crafted luxurious backstage areas, ensuring that even in the briefest of moments, the designer could gather his team, receive press, and enjoy a moment of solitude. This dedication to creating a fantasy environment has earned her a reputation for excellence.
Derville's work extends beyond the runway. She has been styling interior shoots for Elle Decor and experimenting with furniture design, creating sleek lamps and chairs with the Rome-based gallery Giustini/Stagetti. Her passion for scenography stems from her childhood obsession with rearranging objects in her room, a desire to create a fantasy world. This personal connection to her work adds a layer of authenticity to her designs.
Derville's design philosophy is characterized by high standards, eclecticism, and spontaneity. Her greatest influences include Jean-Michel Frank, Marc du Plantier, Hubert de Givenchy, and Karl Lagerfeld. She finds inspiration in the 18th-century neoclassicism and Art Deco eras, often blending minimalism with maximalism in her work. Her favorite building is the Bibliothèque François Mitterrand in Paris, and she admires the work of architect Rem Koolhaas.
When it comes to artwork, Derville is drawn to the Frick Collection in New York and the Portrait of Madeleine Castaing by Chaim Soutine. Her go-to galleries include Kugel, Maxime Flatry, Matthieu Richard, Anne-Sophie Duval, Philippe Guegan, Lefevbre, and Demisch Danant. She covets Eileen Gray's Lotus table as a vintage piece and finds solace in the beauty of Switzerland.
Derville's personal style is elegant and effortless, with a preference for a simple uniform. Her must-have handbag is the Alger tote by the Row, and she always wears a Rolex watch. Her favorite cocktail is Mezcalita, and she raves about the restaurant Chez René in Paris. For entertainment, she recommends serving ice-cold champagne in silver Puiforcat coupes with Jorge Ben Jor playing in the background.
In conclusion, Marie-Anne Derville's unique approach to scenography and her ability to create ephemeral, luxurious spaces have made her a sought-after designer. Her personal style, influences, and favorite details showcase her refined taste and attention to detail, making her a true master of her craft.
