Diane von Furstenberg designs Claridge’s Christmas tree

London hotel Claridge’s has unveiled this year’s Christmas tree
installation designed by Diane von Furstenberg called ‘The Tree of Love’
decorated with over 8,000 hand painted silver-leafed leaves, glass spheres
and 150 hand-blown glass hearts.

Inspired by the Furstenberg’s passion and belief in the power of love,
symbolising life and nature, and drawing particularly from the creative
influences of the astrological world, the six-metre sculptural tree is
coloured with a blue iridescent lustre and features six different
silver-leafed abstract designed animals, from an owl representing knowledge
and wisdom, a dove, peace and a horse for strength and endurance.

Highlighting the importance of nature within ‘The Tree of Love’ is a
sculptural deer representing gentleness sits at the base, while a peacock
represents beauty, and nestled gently sleeping, is a silver-leafed mouse to
symbolise curiosity.

Commenting on the inspiration behind ‘The Tree of Love’, Furstenberg
said in a statement: “Its’ roots come from the earth, its’ branches extend
to the sky. The flowers become fruits, the colour of the leaves reveal the
seasons. Home to birds, shade for children, and shelter for lovers. It is
the symbol of strength, enlightenment and life…every tree is the Tree of
Love. I wish everyone happy holidays.”

Claridge’s unveils 2018 Christmas tree

Claridge’s general manager, Paul Jackson added: “We are honoured and
delighted that our friend Diane has agreed to take up the challenge of
designing our annual Claridge’s Christmas Tree. Her vision of a ‘Tree of
Love’ could not be more appropriate this Christmas and we believe London
will be charmed by the magic Diane has created at Claridge’s.”

Furstenberg worked closely with long-time friends and collaborators,
artistic set designer Stefan Beckman, artist and illustrator Konstantin
Kakanias, and astrologer Shelley von Strunckel on the festive project,
which also sees structural arches of silver leaves intertwined with magical
fairy lights and hand-blown Murano glass baubles throughout the lobby of
Claridge’s.

, and has seen the hotel teaming up with
designers including Karl Lagerfeld, Christopher Bailey, and Alber Elbaz,
with each putting their own twist on the Christmas season.

The festive tradition started in 2009, with John Galliano then at Dior
designed the tree for two consecutive years. Galliano’s creations were
followed by Alber Elbaz for Lanvin in 2011, Kally Ellis of McQueens in
2012, Dolce and Gabbana decorated the tree in 2013 and 2014, followed by
Christopher Bailey and Burberry in 2015, in 2016, the tree was led by
Apple’s chief design officer, Sir Jony Ive, and in 2017, Chanel’s creative
director Karl Lagerfeld designed a sixteen foot high inverted tree.

Images: courtesy of Claridge’s