fIRST LooK
toward the center of the boutique. “We
decided to expand the space for the shoe
department because we think it’s going to
be very big. We combined men’s and wom-
en’s together for the first time. Again, you
notice all the color,” he says.
In the very middle of the boutique is
the tableware, equestrian and handbag
departments. And in the rear are the
men’s and women’s ready-to-wear and
jewelry. All departments are included in
each location, but the size may vary. I was
surprised at the equestrian display, yet
Robert explained that custom saddles are
available and it was important to include.
The entire store has a warm glow with
beige walls, beautiful terrazzo floors high-
lighted with mother-of-pearl inserts and
green glass fragments, and sandblasted
cherrywood walls in the jewelry alcove
with a comfortable high-top table and seat-
ing. The subtle décor lets the merchandise
shine and the guests feel welcome.
With so much history and so many
iconic items, we had to ask Robert’s favor-
ite item. He quickly answered, showing me
the elegant lining in his suit jacket. “Made
to measure where you can customize any
garment. It makes it more than just a suit.
ABOUT HERMÈS
For more than 180 years, six generations of passionate entrepreneurs and artisans have dedicated themselves to creating
objects of the highest quality. From the house’s origins as harness-makers, to the rich and original collections presented today, its
core values of creative freedom, exquisite craftsmanship, innovation and excellence have remained the same. A family-owned
company, Hermès is led by CEO Axel Dumas, and its creative direction is managed by Pierre-Alexis Dumas, both from the sixth-
generation family members. The architecture firm RDAI, under the direction of Denis Montel, is responsible for designing all
Hermès stores around the world. The full range of products is available worldwide through a network of 309 exclusive stores.
All the details are spectacular,” he says.
As for the overall experience, he shares:
“I would say we are very welcoming to
everyone. The staff — many are new, but
some are very seasoned — is wonderful.
We just love to tell people stories. It gives
them a connection and makes them want
to come back. A scarf story may resonate
and that becomes their first purchase.”
12 INTERIOR APPEAL | ORANGEAPPEAL.COM