INDUSTRY INSIDER

Tristan du Plessis

Interior Architect & Founder of Tristan Du Plessis Studio

Tristan du Plessis

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Founder of his eponymous Cape Town-based Studio, Tristan Du Plessis is an award-winning interior designer whose work for hotels such as Rome’s Chapter Roma and Cape Town’s Gorgeous George has made him a much sought-after name. A Hotel Life caught up with him for a chat about his journey as he anticipates the opening of Giselle Miami, his first project in the United States.

What do you do, and how did you get here?

I’m an interior architect based in Cape Town, but I grew up in Johannesburg. I’ve always been interested in design, but I actually went to university thinking of studying marketing. Luckily I realized within a short period of time that it wasn’t for me, and I opted for an internship that changed the trajectory of my career and immersed me in the world of design.

I am continually inspired by first-hand hospitality experiences that push me to elevate my own skillset and show me the gaps that can be improved. I love hospitality and the space that it provides for beautiful moments to happen. I count myself lucky to be a part of building these spaces.

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"I love hospitality and the space that it provides for beautiful moments to happen. I count myself lucky to be a part of building these spaces."

What inspires you?

History is a great source of inspiration — while I look to create new, innovative spaces, there is so much to be learned from the past. In many ways, design is cyclical, so creating timeless work should be informed by what has come before. While it doesn’t necessarily mean a direct homage, the influence that runs through modern work can tell its own story.

What does a good day at work look like?

As much as I travel, my favorite space in the world is my studio on Bree street in Cape Town. Being there with my team and seeing our local suppliers and makers in production with custom elements is the best way to spend my day.

Curiosity-inducing entrance at Gorgeous George
Curiosity-inducing entrance at Gorgeous George
One of the rooms designed by Tristan
One of the rooms designed by Tristan

Who have you loved working with?

Collaboration is a core tenet of my design philosophy. While I love all my projects, Gorgeous George is one of my favorites because I got to work with incredible artists and artisans. In the same vein, one of my latest projects, SAN Beach Club in Dubai, allowed me to work with so many immensely talented people. But I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my latest with award-winning DJ Black Coffee. Working together on the penthouse suite at Hallmark House was a cross-disciplinary collaboration that truly brought together South African creatives and holds a special place for me.

San Beach Club in Dubai, one of Tristan's latest projects
San Beach Club in Dubai, one of Tristan's latest projects
Serene interiors of the club
Serene interiors of the club

Describe a dream hotel project:

A dream project is any project that puts design at the center, one that aims to create an elevated experience for its guests and strives to provide a unique perspective for its audience.

Is there a company or individual whose work in the industry you admire or respect?

Ian Schrager inspires me to think of things not just to be better than they are but to consider whether they should be that way at all. A pioneer in holistic and considered hospitality experiences. He’s definitely someone I admire.

“Travel as much as possible — there is no faster, more interesting way to challenge your perspective and shape how you see the world.”

What advice would you give young designers?

It starts with doing and creating as much as possible. We’re in a time where design has been democratized and globalized by digital platforms and international opportunities. I think it’s also incredibly important to put yourself out there. Lastly, travel as much as possible — there is no faster, more interesting way to challenge your perspective and shape how you see the world.

Giselle, Miami, Tristan's first project in the United States
Giselle, Miami, Tristan's first project in the United States
Hotel Costes, Paris
Hotel Costes, Paris

What excites you most these days?

When it comes to working, it’s taking on new territories. I’ve loved creating projects in Africa and the Middle East. The US is next, with the recently launched Giselle Miami, which comes with an entirely new perspective. 

Favorite hotel in the world?

It’s an absolute cliché, but I love Costes in Paris. They have carved such a strong personality that hasn’t wavered, even when it has been improved — the scent, the music, the people, and the service style are all memorable.

Check out Tritan Du Plessis’ Insider Guide to Cape Town

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