Inge Moore and Nathan Hutchins’ London-based design studio Muza Lab has crafted interiors for South America’s first luxury sleeper train, the Belmond Andean Explorer in Peru. The former Great South Pacific Express has been restored with 16 carriages.
Soft, neutral tones allow the surrounding vistas to take center stage. Drawing inspiration from Peruvian landscapes as well as Peruvian crafts and artistry, Muza punctuates the interior with locally sourced materials such as timber flooring, linen roman blinds, and colorful woven textiles. Timber wall panels have been painted in muted linen shades to contrast the vibrant the Peruvian artwork. The train’s exterior features its original maroon and ivory color palette updated to glossy blue livery.
Each cabin is named for Peruvian flora and fauna, while configurations vary from private, en-suite sleeper cars to observation, piano, spa, and two dining cars. Sleeper cars are equipped with double, twin, or bunkbeds, clad with timber walls, linen-like wallcoverings, fabric- and saffiano leather-dressed seating, and neutral carpeting. Double-bed configurations include full-height, tufted leather headboards for a modern touch, while two blue lounge chairs are also installed.
The observation car is equipped with a scrolled outdoor balcony, while interior seating is upholstered in fabrics informed by traditional Peruvian garments with ceramic table lamps in deep teal. Embossed leather chairs with nail heads affixed to chunky timber frames infuse a laidback sensibility into the space. The Piano Bar Car serves as the train’s social hub complete with a glossy black grand piano, gray tweed sofas and lounge chairs, and roman blinds. In addition to two dining cars, the Picaflor Spa car includes three treatment rooms.
“We design spaces that encourage moments of magic to come to life,” Moore says. “By elevating what is already an incredible, awe-inspiring journey into a one-of-a-kind immersion into Peru’s culture, landscape and crafts, passengers have a new, contemporary way to enjoy the beauty of slow travel and create memories they will cherish forever.”
