Rooted in the tradition of French decorative arts, Thierry Lemaire approaches furniture with the eye of an architect and the sensibility of a sculptor. His work moves between interior architecture, bespoke furniture and collectible design, bringing together carefully considered proportions, contrasting materials and the expertise of master craftsmen. His practice reflects a distinctive understanding of contemporary French elegance, where architectural rigour meets an appreciation for the expressive qualities of materials.
The opening of V-Gallery in Dubai marked a new chapter in his relationship with the Middle East. With a presentation dedicated to his work, the gallery offers an opportunity to explore the principles behind his creations, from the sculptural presence of furniture to the enduring relevance of traditional craftsmanship. We speak to Lemaire about his creative universe, the distinction between design and collectible objects, and the possibilities emerging from the region’s evolving design culture.
V-Gallery is inaugurating its new Dubai space with a presentation dedicated to your work. What does this exhibition represent for you, and what can visitors expect to discover?
For me, an exhibition is never merely a display of objects; it is about creating an atmosphere that reflects a distinct personality and vision.
Visitors will discover a universe where every piece establishes a subtle dialogue with its surroundings, revealing iconic creations such as the Byron chair, the Yaba table – where the drawing of an organic, powerful form paired with Indonesian teak resonates as a tribute to materiality and sophisticated design-or the striking physical presence of burned steel in the KAALA armchair. These are pieces that embody a balance of raw materiality, refined elegance, and rigorous utility. Every object created must remain strictly functional, while injecting that touch of character, sculpture, and singular elegance that defines my work.
Your work brings together French decorative arts, architecture and collectible furniture. Which aspects of your creative universe did you particularly want to highlight in this presentation?
I wanted to showcase the spirit of the ensemblier—that traditional French approach where architecture, interior design, bespoke furniture, and art exist in total cohesion and harmony.
At the same time, this presentation pays homage to my major references: the 20th-century masters of French decorative arts like Jean-Michel Frank and Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann, alongside the enduring spirit of 18th- and 19th-century craft. I wanted to express my passion for contrast and “deliberate dissonance” – pairing raw, unyielding materials with smooth, noble finishes. It is this precise tension, combined with timeless proportions, that defines the identity of my universe.
To convey this vision, the presentation highlights pieces designed with an architectural and sculptural intent, crafted to express themselves in the totality of their volume, offering a sculptural presence to be discovered from every angle. It invites a tactile and sensory experience of materiality, where touching a creation becomes as essential as contemplating it, establishing a refined dialogue between the density of noble substances and the fluidity of the design.
Craftsmanship and materiality are central to your practice. How do these elements shape your furniture collections, and what distinguishes a collectible piece from a conventional design object?
Materiality is where creation starts. Whether working with marble remnants, onyx, or metals like bronze and steel – which I love casting, hammering, or burning, it is always a matter of balance and proportion between the material itself and raw creativity.
What elevates a piece into the realm of collectible design lies first in a deep, humble dialogue with master craftsmen, guiding their instinct without ever constraining it, allowing the raw truth of execution to emerge naturally. Unlike conventional design, which responds to standardized market demands, collectible pieces stem from an uncompromising pursuit of perfection, rarity, and sculptural expression.
Dubai is becoming an increasingly important destination for collectible design. How do you see the evolution of the design and collecting culture in the Middle East?
The region has developed a highly discerning, sophisticated clientele seeking absolute harmony and excellence in their art of living.
Today’s collectors in the Middle East are passionate art lovers. They understand that an interior must immediately reveal a world and prepare visitors to immerse themselves in what is held dear to their host. There is a deep appreciation for mixing styles, taking creative risks, and exploring new aesthetic territories, serving a mature design culture that celebrates heritage, artistic expression, and authentic craftsmanship.
V-Gallery aims to create a dialogue between international designers and the region’s creative community. What opportunities do you see for cultural exchange and future collaborations in this part of the world?
True creation thrives on encounters and shared high standards, making the Middle East an incredibly inspiring territory for growth. Establishing a presence here represents a natural, strategic evolution – driven by a profound alignment in architectural ambition, a passion for noble materials, and an appetite for bespoke creation.
As we accelerate our development in the Middle East, the ambition is to anchor our identity within this dynamic landscape and forge lasting relationships with discerning collectors and key cultural actors. Expanding our footprint here offers an extraordinary foundation for the future: one defined by uncompromising quality, architectural rigor, and the elevation of collectible design.
