SLEEK, SILVER, AND STYLISH: LOUIS VUITTON’S HORIZON ALUMINIUM
words by ANOUK WOUDT
Taking the classic LV trunk to another level, Louis Vuitton is launching the Horizon Aluminium, its very first aluminium suitcase. Revisiting a collaboration with Marc Newson, one of the most celebrated industrial designers of his generation, the result is a piece that is bold, sleek, and innovatively designed for the likes of a seasoned traveller. Launched as a celebration of the 10th anniversary of their original Horizon suitcase, this version carries the perfect embodiment of both Louis Vuitton’s personality and Marc Newson’s signature futuristic style.
Before their original Horizon suitcase collaboration, the two creative forces have been closely linked since 2014, when Newsom created a limited-edition biomorphic rucksack to celebrate the Monogram. Since then, he has also crafted an exclusive glass bottle for an LV fragrance, but that was already 10 years ago, making their re-collaboration long overdue. Using the style that Newsom has applied to furniture, aircraft, and truly any field in the design realm, the newest rendition of the Horizon fits in perfectly with the rest of his portfolio. Seemingly drawing some inspiration from his futuristic aluminium chair, aptly titled the Lockheed Lounge, he reshapes a material he knows and loves into something more functional.
Coincidentally, aluminium also holds a large significance in Louis Vuitton’s material lineage. Already in its rotation since the 19th century, the House originally used the material to craft trunks for explorers. Though it has shifted to leather and canvas renditions, aluminium is embraced once again, renowned for its durability and boundless recyclability.
But, of course, these are not the only qualities that drew the brands into this design choice. The shell is durable, crafted through a series of stamping and laser-cutting processes, making it ideal for withstanding the wear and tear of long travels. Including the iconic Monogram, this feature actually becomes a key structural element, replacing the usual grooves of this type of hard-shelled suitcase.
Despite the monogrammed facade, it maintains a sleek look, staying true to Marc Newsom’s minimalist aesthetic while making it the ideal luggage to match any airport outfit — and of course, host all of your travelling essentials. In true Louis Vuitton style, the piece respect the Art of Travel, becoming the perfect container for you to organize all you might need and more.
