Legendary Disney Imagineer Sylvie Massara Receives Window Honor in Disneyland Paris
Disney Imagineer and Art Director, Sylvie Massara, received perhaps the highest honor in her profession today when the longtime Disney employee was bestowed her very own window on Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland Paris.
For over 35 years, Massara has helped make magic happen at Walt Disney Imagineering, working in Disneyland Paris and creating unforgettable memories for guests.
“I was so surprised, I must admit, when I received the news,” Sylvie said. “I was very honored, of course, and very, very moved, because I wasn’t expecting it at all.”
A Storied Disney Career
Sylvie’s Walt Disney Imagineering career began during the construction of Disneyland Paris (then Euro Disneyland) in 1988. At the time, she was tasked with developing the layout and interiors of Fantasyland.
“I went to both Italy and England to follow the production of the furniture. In particular, I worked on La Chaumière des Sept Nains, La Bottega di Gepetto, as well as Le Chalet de la Marionette – which we called Village House at the time,” she recalled.
Following the opening of the Euro Disney Resort, Sylvie returned to Glendale for a year. Soon, however, she was heading back to France as a part of the Design and Show Quality team.
In 1996, Sylvie was offered the opportunity to work on Disneyland Paris’ hotels. It was an offer she took and then never let go of.
Since 2010, Sylvie and her team have undertaken the daunting task of redesigning both the Disney Sequoia Lodge and, more recently, the Disneyland Hotel.
Where To Find Sylvie’s Window
Sylvie’s window is located at the front of Main Street, U.S.A., above the New Century Notions Flora’s Boutique. The window is a testament to her three decades of interior design work and reads: “New Century Interiors, Sylvie Massara, Proprietor, ‘All-time designs for all times!’”
So, what does Sylvie remember most about her career?
“My absolute highlight all those years has been the collaboration with Imagineers and cast members to turn dreams into reality and create emotions for our guests. Seeing the look on their faces as they enter a freshly reinvented space makes me proud to have been part of this experience, alongside all other teams.”
Congratulations Sylvie!