President and CEO of Maison Pouenat

Meet Jacques Rayet, CEO of Maison Pouenat and an enthusiast of artistic ironwork.
This Arts & Métiers engineer has transformed the company into a leader
in metal interior decoration
by combining artisanal craftsmanship with modern industrial techniques.

What is your background?

As a young engineer from Arts & Métiers, I began my career in industrial engineering, where I worked for a year before pursuing further studies with a postgraduate degree in management at IAE. Subsequently, I joined Drimmer in Rodez, a company specializing in the production of ceramic lighting, where I held the positions of methods engineer and then workshop manager for two years. I then joined the Thomson group in Moulins, initially as head of production for a unit assembling HIFI electronic components (radio, cassette, amplifiers), before becoming unit manager. These experiences shaped my expertise in production management and allowed me to develop a unique perspective on industrial processes.

How did this love for ironwork come about?

The idea to take over an industrial boiler-making and sheet metal company arose from the desire to prevent relocation to Asia. This is how I discovered a true passion for metal transformation. In 1995, this passion led me to purchase Maison Pouenat, a neighbouring ironworker in difficulty, with the ambition to combine artisanal skills with industrial techniques. My goal was to create high-end interior decoration pieces, promoting traditional craftsmanship while integrating modern processes.

What initial impetus did you give to the company and where do you want to take it?

From the start, my ambition was to breathe new life into Maison Pouenat. I initiated the creation of a catalogue showcasing a selection of products designed by Henri Pouenat in the 1970s and 1980s. I also hired a sales manager to boost sales and develop new collaborations with architects and decorators. In the early 2000s, we participated in the Maison & Objet trade show, where we presented our “flagship” products. At the same time, I established a design office with 3D CAD tools to sustain the production of architect-designed products and modernise our production processes. Over the past 20 years, we have accumulated data on approximately 300 products that we can manufacture on demand. In 2003, we expanded our range with furniture creations signed by interior architects, which allowed us to diversify our activities beyond subcontracting for architectural works. Until 2010, we presented a new collection each year at the Maison & Objet trade show. In 2011, we opened “La Galerie Parisienne” in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, where we organise two or three scenographies per year to showcase our latest models. This gallery also presents our expertise in architectural work, further enhancing our image as a leading metalwork company in interior decoration.

What would be your dream project?

My dream would be to design the complete layout of a space, a “metal-only” residence. This would include elements such as an entrance door, a staircase railing, interior doors, wall claddings, furniture from our editions, fireplaces, and partitions, all made of metal. This project would embody the very essence of our expertise, combining aesthetics, high-end interior decoration, and functionality.

How did you come to know Collection Latil?

I discovered Collection Latil through social media, particularly LinkedIn and Instagram. I was immediately captivated by their elegant and creative approach to promoting luxury craftsmanship. Their ability to highlight craftsmanship with a modern touch greatly inspired me.

You can also find Maison Pouenat in the Collection section.

Photos : ©Jean-Pierre Vaillancourt, ©Sylvain Claire