Navigating stylistic tradition between eras
Tristan Auer is an accomplished, entrepreneurial interior architect.
Who is he?
Recognized as one of the world’s leading designers, Tristan Auer is an accomplished, entrepreneurial interior architect. As Principal of Wilson Associates’ Paris Atelier, Auer is lauded for his eclectic and elegant aesthetic. He is proficient in navigating stylistic tradition between eras, best known for his consistent delivery of tailored design schemes that uniquely suit his dynamic clientele.
In his role as Principal, Tristan oversees the firm’s “hautest” design projects across Europe — ranging in typology from premier hospitality destinations and award-winning restaurant interiors to luxury residences and boutique retail spaces. The Atelier’s most recent projects include the historic Carlton Hotel Cannes and Le Scribe Hotel Paris, as well as the breathtaking Mahanakhon Bangkok SkyBar, located on the 76th floor of the iconic King Power Mahanakhon in Bangkok, Thailand. In addition to his work with Wilson Associates, Tristan is recognized around the world for an eponymous design studio, which he helmed prior to joining the Wilson team, and countless industry accolades — which include Maison & Objet Designer of the Year 2017; GQ Men of the Year Award for Designer of the Year 2017; The European Hotel Design of the Year 2015 for his work on Hotel Les Bains; and Architectural Digest France Ten Best Interior Designers of 2014.
Tell us some of your works, and name the one you are most proud of.
We are currently working on the renovation of a legend, the Carlton Hotel in Cannes, France. This is an example of enhancing the beauty of a historical building and bringing back the glory of the past by telling a story through design.
Are you currently involved with any project?
Yes, I am currently working on various projects, about 16 I believe; and I am proud of them all. The variety of design styles, locations and demands is fascinating.
Describe your design style.
I don’t have a specific design style that one will recognize immediately. I like to be pushed and challenged by every new project — that gives me the possibility to reinvent myself.
Where are you most creative?
The question is not really where, but rather when I am most creative. Creativity can hit me anywhere, at any time. It’s something I am unable to control.
What does your home mean to you?
My home is currently my private project that I am working on, a playground I use to find and develop a variety of new ideas.
What do you collect?
I don’t like to collect objects. What I enjoy most is to learn about an object (which sometimes I buy). I enjoy using and experiencing it, this is the case of my collection of classic cars. I truly enjoy traveling with them, celebrating an elegant and personal style.
Where would you like to go most in Shanghai?
I would definitively enjoy visiting the Chinese museum of arts and crafts.
What will be the next big design trend?
Design trends move in cycles and come back again. I most certainly believe a more minimalistic and serene design style will be up next.
