Belmond's British Pullman Debuts Dazzling Celia Carriage Designed by Baz Luhrmann

This week, Belmond's British Pullman train unveiled an exclusive new carriage named Celia, reimagined by acclaimed filmmaker Baz Luhrmann and his wife, designer Catherine Martin. The 1932 Pullman carriage, set to launch in early summer 2026, will offer a bespoke luxury rail experience for a maximum of 12 guests.

The redesign, as reported by Forbes, avoids direct historical recreation. Instead, Luhrmann and Martin crafted a narrative around Celia, a fictional 1930s West End actress known for her role as Titania. The carriage is conceived as her private sanctuary, subtly evoking her life on stage without overt theatrical elements.

Luhrmann's personal connection to train travel deeply influenced the project. According to Forbes, he finds inspiration in the "gentle rhythm of a slow journey," often using train rides for reflection and developing new creative ideas. He describes trains as "moving homes" that collect intimate conversations and celebrations, a sentiment reflected in the design philosophy of Celia.

Our take: Belmond's collaboration with Luhrmann and Martin signals a strategic move to infuse their heritage luxury offerings with contemporary cultural cachet. By crafting a narrative-driven experience, the British Pullman elevates a simple journey into immersive storytelling, appealing to a discerning clientele seeking more than just opulent travel. This theatrical approach distinguishes Celia from other luxury rail ventures by offering an emotional connection to a bespoke, imagined history.