Mathieu Lehanneur, a celebrated French designer, has gained recognition for his ability to merge design with scientific inquiry, creating emotionally resonant pieces that engage multiple senses. Named Designer of the Year by Maison&Objet in 2024, Lehanneur’s work spans from collectible furniture to significant public installations, including the Olympic and Paralympic torch for Paris 2024. His approach challenges conventional boundaries, blending art, technology, and poetry in innovative ways.
Lehanneur was born in Rochefort-sur-Mer in 1974 but spent much of his childhood in a small town near Paris. The youngest of seven siblings, he grew up in an environment shaped by his father, an engineer and inventor. This background instilled in him a blend of creativity and analytical thinking. Initially drawn to medicine, Lehanneur ultimately pivoted towards design, recognizing his need for interaction and context in his creative process.
At ENSCI–Les Ateliers, Lehanneur discovered his true calling. His early fascination with the human body and the invisible forces of nature—such as air, light, and water—guided his exploration of design as a means to question human experience. His desire for autonomy led to the establishment of The Factory, a 700-square-meter facility located on the outskirts of Paris, where he oversees the entire production cycle of his designs. The Factory serves as the headquarters for his brand, allowing him to conceive, develop, and market his creations in-house.
Lehanneur’s creative process is both introspective and collaborative. He begins by allowing ideas to form in his mind, observing them grow before translating them into tangible designs. “I close my eyes. I let the ideas come and compose themselves,” he explains. This method reflects a balance between rationality and intuition, a duality that Lehanneur believes is essential for impactful design.
His interest in science significantly influences his work. During his studies, he participated in clinical trials for pharmaceutical companies, which deepened his understanding of the connection between the body and mind. This experience inspired his Therapeutic Objects project, which aims to reconceptualize how we think about and design medicinal products.
In discussing his design philosophy, Lehanneur emphasizes the importance of understanding materials and manufacturing processes. He often spends time in workshops and laboratories, collaborating closely with artisans and engineers. This hands-on approach allows him to bridge the gap between the rational aspects of design and the emotional responses they evoke.
Lehanneur’s decision to launch his eponymous line of furniture, lighting, and accessories stems from a desire to maintain control over his creations. “I’m the best person to talk about my creations,” he asserts, emphasizing the importance of a cohesive narrative that connects his diverse works. Each piece, whether a chandelier or a piece of furniture, contributes to a larger symphony of design that resonates with clients who seek a unique and meaningful experience.
The craftsmanship behind his products is equally significant. All items are manufactured in France by carefully selected artisans, ensuring a commitment to quality and authenticity. This focus on local production aligns with Lehanneur’s vision of creating a global design experience rooted in cultural context.
As Mathieu Lehanneur continues to redefine the boundaries of design, his work serves as a reminder of the profound impact that thoughtful, emotionally resonant objects can have on our lives. His ability to intertwine science and design offers a fresh perspective on how we interact with the world around us, inspiring others to consider the deeper implications of their creations.
