The first glass manufacturer in France and the first manufacturer of crystal glassware in continental Europe, Saint-Louis has a history that dates back to the 16th century and a name that has become synonymous with luxury. Each chandelier component and piece of crystalware is mouth-blown and hand-cut at its factories. We paid a visit to the brand’s Hong Kong flagship store to speak with the CEO of the brand, Jérôme de Lavergnolle, about how looking to the traditions of the past can help in moving forward into the future.

Colours have existed in Saint-Louis since the 19th century. The number of colours that we use today is probably the largest on the market; we have more than 15 colours in our collections. Year after year, we introduce new colours. We are also very well known for our assembly of different colours together, which are called double-layered or triple-layered colours.

We have such a long history – more than 430 years – that each product has a story behind it. For example, during the First World War, King George V went to France. He was welcomed by the president of France with a very important dinner at Versailles. He asked, “What is this collection of glasses – what is its name?” The reply was: “Your Majesty, we call it Tommy as thanks to your soldiers.” In fact, English soldiers were called “tommies” then. The collection was launched for the first time in Versailles for King George V.

Tradition isn’t in the product. Tradition is in the techniques. We take techniques that come from our roots and our past, and use those techniques to invest in the future. When designers we collaborate with launch new lighting pieces, the product itself can look very contemporary, but there is always a link with the past because of the mould or the type of cut. There is always a link between tradition and innovation.

I love when we collaborate with a new designer because it’s always a challenge. It helps us move forward. Each time we welcome a designer, we ask them to spend some time in our factory and museum. Then they come with their ideas, and it’s always a confrontation between design and craftsmanship. Sometimes the drawings the designers have in mind are physically impossible.

In Asia, people don’t dress their table formally at home. What they prefer instead of buying tableware is buying barware, but they also buy tableware for special uses. For example, they enjoy wine tasting. So last year, we launched a new collection of wine tasting glasses that’s very popular in Asia and in Hong Kong, called Twist.

We launch a new collection every six months. The next big one will be in January at Maison&Objet – a holistic collection including tableware, decoration, lighting and furnishings, which is very new for Saint-Louis. It will be a mix of crystal and wood.

By: Leanne Mirandilla