French designer Mathieu Lehanneur has transformed the landscape of contemporary design by blending science with emotional resonance. Recognized as the Designer of the Year by Maison&Objet in 2024, Lehanneur’s work spans a variety of mediums, including collectible furniture, lighting, and significant installations such as the Olympic and Paralympic torch for Paris 2024. His approach is a testament to his belief that design can evoke deep emotional responses while addressing the complexities of human experience.
Lehanneur’s journey began in Rochefort-sur-Mer, where he was born in 1974. Growing up in a family of seven children, he was deeply influenced by his father, an engineer and inventor. This background instilled in him a sense of curiosity and a desire to explore the intersection of various disciplines. Initially torn between pursuing medicine and embracing a creative path, Lehanneur eventually found his calling in design.
From Academic Pursuits to Design Innovation
Lehanneur’s academic journey began at the prestigious Beaux-Arts, but he quickly realized that solitary work did not suit him. After just one year, he transitioned to the École Nationale Supérieure de Création Industrielle (ENSCI) in Paris, where he discovered a passion for collaborative environments. During his application interview, he famously cited the inventor of the escalator as his favorite designer, illustrating his fascination with innovative concepts and their impact on daily life.
His interest in science blossomed during his diploma project, where he undertook pharmaceutical studies that allowed him to finance his education. Lehanneur participated in clinical trials, experiencing firsthand the intricate relationship between the body and mind. This experience inspired his project on Therapeutic Objects, aiming to rethink the design of medicines and their interaction with human psychology. He recognizes science as a profound source of inspiration, shaping his understanding of the complexities of human existence.
A Unique Creative Process
Lehanneur’s creative process is both intuitive and analytical. He begins by closing his eyes and allowing ideas to form without the constraints of drawing. He visualizes these concepts, nurturing the strongest ones until they are robust enough to be translated into tangible designs. This method reflects his belief that design should evolve organically, with pieces developing their own identities before coming to life.
His commitment to understanding materials and manufacturing processes is evident in his hands-on approach. Spending significant time in workshops and laboratories, Lehanneur seeks to master the rational aspects of design, which he then blends with more abstract, emotional elements. This balance allows him to create objects that resonate on both functional and emotional levels.
In 2023, Lehanneur established The Factory, a vertically-integrated production facility located on the outskirts of Paris. This 700-square-meter space houses offices, workshops, and an exhibition area, allowing him to oversee the entire design and manufacturing process. His decision to launch an eponymous line of furniture and accessories stems from a desire to maintain control over the narrative of his creations, ensuring that each piece contributes to a larger story.
Lehanneur collaborates with carefully selected French craftsmen to produce his designs, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship. His mission is to create a cohesive family of products that dialogue with one another, transcending their individual characteristics to form a unified design language.
Mathieu Lehanneur’s work exemplifies the potential of design to engage with the human experience in profound ways. By intertwining science with emotional expression, he challenges traditional boundaries and invites us to reconsider our relationship with the objects that surround us. His innovative approach will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the world of design.
