The 'Cracked Earth' Wall Panel at Emory Hotel London: A Collaboration with Rémi Tessier
In the prestigious Knightsbridge area of London, Silverlining, in collaboration with renowned designer Rémi Tessier, has created a striking artwork wall for The Emory Hotel, blending nature, craftsmanship, and luxury. The “Cracked Earth” wall is more than a decorative artwork ; as well as being an artistic interpretation of the dramatic dry, cracked salt-pan landscapes of Deadvlei, Namibia, the wall features a secret integrated door.
Located on the exclusive upper floor and leading to the rooftop cigar lounge, once only accessible to hotel guests and select members, now offers the public a rare glimpse into a world of unparalleled sophistication. As the latest addition to The Maybourne Group’s collection of world-renowned hotels, The Emory represents the pinnacle of discreet luxury and bespoke interiors. It is within this setting that Silverlining, celebrated for its innovative craftsmanship and mastery of materials, was invited to create a statement wall that embodies both art and function.
The “Cracked Earth” artwork wall, positioned at the heart of this refined space, immediately captivates with its intricate composition and meticulous attention to detail. As Russell Dyson, Senior Designer at Silverlining, explains:
“Collaborating with Rémi Tessier on the ‘Cracked Earth’ artwork was an incredible opportunity to bring the concept of our sample to life. Together, we carefully crafted each detail, from the varying heights of the oak blocks to the ombre brass finish, ensuring that the panel would not only reflect the natural beauty of Deadvlei but also seamlessly integrate with the space. It’s a true testament to what can be achieved through collaboration and a shared vision.”
Bringing Deadvlei to Life: The Making of the Panel
Inspired by Silverlining’s ‘Cracked Earth Sample’, the design mirrors the geological history of Deadvlei, a once thriving oasis that dried up nearly 900 years ago due to shifting dunes that blocked the Tsauchab River. The cracked salt-pan surface of this ancient land is reimagined in individually shaped oak fragments, each precisely cut and arranged to reflect the fractured terrain. The oak end grain pieces transition in height and tone - from light, natural oak colour at the centre to the darker edges—creating a mesmerising gradient effect.
The process of creating the wall panel required exceptional attention to detail and the highest level of craftsmanship. Each oak veneer fragment was hand-selected for its unique grain and texture, ensuring a natural yet intentional arrangement that mimics the organic broken patterns of sun-dried earth . Achieving the ombre brass backdrop involved a specialised patination process, where the brass was heat treated to gradually darken from gold to deep bronze tones, mirroring the transition from light to shadow seen in the natural world.
The challenge of precision was paramount, not only in crafting the fragmented oak surfaces but also in seamlessly integrating a concealed pivoting secret door into the composition. The pattern had to flow uninterrupted, ensuring that the door remained invisible when closed, preserving the integrity of the design while providing a functional architectural feature. This level of craftsmanship and engineering exemplifies Silverlining’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of material innovation and 21st century furniture making.
More than an Artwork: The Meaning Behind the Design
Beyond its visual and technical brilliance, the artwork carries a deeper narrative. Deadvlei’s cracked terrain tells the story of nature’s resilience, transformation, and the passage of time, themes that resonate with the ethos of both Silverlining and The Emory Hotel. The contrast between aged, weathered textures and the smooth brilliance of brass reflects the duality of permanence and change, a concept that runs through the very essence of bespoke design.
In addition, the use of indigenous ancient English oak (Latin name Quercus Robur) and brass that dates back to ancient civilizations, symbolise longevity, strength, stability, endurance, honesty and refinement. This wall is not just an artwork but a conversation between tradition and modernity, nature and craftsmanship, a story woven into the very fabric of The Emory’s luxurious setting.
Spanning an impressive 3.6 metres in width and 2.5 metres in height, the “Cracked Earth” artwork wall commands attention while maintaining an air of sophistication and balance. A true testament to Silverlining’s commitment to craftsmanship and material innovation, this collaboration with Rémi Tessier has resulted in an extraordinary design that will leave a lasting impression on all who experience it.
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