Thomas Sériès: A Visionary in Fashion and Design

Thomas Sériès has spent the last decade in Los Angeles, carving a niche for himself not only in architecture but also as a design collector and fashion innovator. His brand, Bwana Shirts, and his passion for Memphis design have made him a notable figure in the creative community. Recognized in France for his groundbreaking work with Labtop Rendering, Thomas has successfully blended his architectural expertise with his love for bold fashion and design.

Bwana Shirts: A Celebration of Color and Pattern

Thomas, can you tell us more about Bwana Shirts and how Memphis design influences this brand?

“Bwana Shirts is a brand I co-founded that specializes in belted shirts bursting with colorful patterns. We use vibrant Kente African wax fabric, echoing the lively patterns and hues that are the hallmark of Memphis design. Each shirt is a statement piece, celebrating the joie de vivre and creative spirit that define both the Memphis movement and my design ethos. Fashion and architecture often draw from the same creative wellspring, inspiring and enhancing one another. The bold patterns and innovative shapes of Memphis design influence not only our fashion designs but also our architectural renderings.”

The Influence of Memphis Design

You have a notable interest in design from the seventies and eighties, particularly Memphis design. How does this influence your work?

“Memphis design has always fascinated me with its bold colors, innovative shapes, and playful patterns. The movement, led by visionaries like Ettore Sottsass, Peter Shire, and Masanori Umeda, brings a sense of fun and freedom to design. The eclectic mix of geometric forms and vibrant patterns inspires me to incorporate a sense of humor and joy into my work. This influence is especially evident in both my architectural projects and the designs of Bwana Shirts.”

The Power of Architectural Images

Can you tell us more about the new projects you are working on in the US?

“I am very proud of the projects we are currently engaged with. One of our latest collaborations is with Morphosis for the Neom project in Saudi Arabia, and we have also been working on the expansion of the Clinton Presidential Center with Studio Gang. These projects are a testament to our commitment to bringing European architectural excellence to the global stage.”

The Strategy for Introducing New Architectural Designs

What is your strategy for introducing new architectural designs in the US?

“Introducing new designs involves more than just showcasing beautiful images. It’s about telling a compelling story and conveying the project’s essence and potential. For instance, our work with the exhibition La Belle Vie Numérique! at the Espace Fondation EDF, featuring 30 artists from Rembrandt to Xavier Veilhan, focused on creating visuals that highlight the innovative and artistic aspects of the exhibition. Our approach combines editorial storytelling, celebrity endorsements, and a strong digital presence to ensure that our projects receive the attention they deserve. Magazines and digital platforms play a crucial role in this strategy, helping us reach a wider audience and create a lasting impact.”

The Marketing Aspect of Architectural Renderings

In the words of Jean-Luc Godard, “Ce n’est pas une image juste, c’est juste une image” (“It’s not just an image, it’s just an image”). This quote underscores our philosophy at Labtop Rendering. We believe that architectural renderings are not merely visual representations; they are powerful tools for communication and marketing. They must evoke emotions, tell stories, and convey the architectural vision in a way that resonates with both professionals and the public.

The Light and Creativity of Los Angeles and Paris

You often mention the influence of Los Angeles and Paris on your work. How do these cities inspire you?

“Both Los Angeles and Paris have a profound impact on my creativity. Los Angeles, with its bright, inspiring light and dynamic, creative community, offers an irreverent and alternative approach to design and fashion. This contrasts with the conservative respect of chic that is typical in Paris. Over the past few years, many brands and creatives around the world have looked at Los Angeles with envy, appreciating its boldness and willingness to challenge conventions. Paris, on the other hand, brings a sense of timeless elegance and sophistication. Blending these influences allows me to create designs that are both innovative and refined.”

Personal Style and Venice Beach Office

You have a distinctive personal style and a unique office setup. Can you tell us more about that?

“My office in Venice Beach is a true reflection of my eclectic tastes and influences. I dress in a mix of Parisian and American styles, often sporting a white double-breasted jacket and a straw cowboy hat reminiscent of Lyndon B. Johnson or Theodore Roosevelt. This blend of elegance and ruggedness symbolizes my approach to design. In my office, I have an original Sottsass Carlton shelf and a Castiglioni Sella stool, which are both pieces I deeply admire. They represent the playful yet functional ethos that I strive to bring into all my projects.”

Conclusion

Thomas Sériès continues to push the boundaries of fashion and design, bringing European excellence to the United States and beyond. His work with Bwana Shirts, his impressive design collection, and his high-profile architectural projects demonstrate his ability to adapt, innovate, and inspire. As he continues to influence the creative landscape, we look forward to seeing more groundbreaking designs and collaborations from this visionary designer.