One of the four famous department stores in Paris, La Samaritaine , closed for 16 years, has finally completed its renovation project and reopened with a futuristic new look. In addition to becoming a new shopping landmark in the area, it is believed to be a popular must-visit travel destination!
Known as the “Parisian legend department store,” La Samaritaine is located near famous landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre in Paris. Established by local retail tycoon Ernest Coqnacq in 1870, it was acquired by the LVMH group in 2010. Four years later, it was forced to close due to building safety standards not being met. It then enlisted the renowned architectural firm SANAA to oversee a multi-year, 750 million euro renovation project.
Recently, La Samaritaine finally opened, with French President Macron and LVMH Group Chairman Bernard Arnault both appearing at the opening event.
The newly renovated La Samaritaine department store in Paris, spanning 7 floors and over 6,000 square meters, blends elements of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, bringing an elegant and modern design. One of the most eye-catching design features is the undulating glass curtain wall created by SANAA’s Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, creating a sense of movement with its flowing lines. The glass facade reflects the Parisian street view of La Samaritaine while bringing natural light into the interior, and the glass dome echoes the unique design of the exterior, adding a sense of brightness.
In addition to the unique glass exterior, the interior decoration of the brand new La Samaritaine is also full of beauty. La Samaritaine has preserved the original staircase design in this renovation, replacing it with oak wood and adding many new art nouveau style ceramics in the hollow elements, while the gold leaf decoration adds a luxurious touch to the space. In addition, beautiful hand-painted murals adorn many corners of the interior, exuding an artistic atmosphere.
Originally scheduled to reopen in April last year, La Samaritaine was postponed due to the pandemic. However, LVMH transformed this luxurious department store into a fashion stage, with Louis Vuitton holding the first 2021 spring/summer collection show in October last year, showcasing the new season’s fashion designs and promoting the opening of the department store.
It is known that 600 brands under the LVMH group will be stationed at La Samaritaine, including fashion, beauty, jewelry, and luxury brands, with the exclusive sale of Comme des Garçons Black line products here! In addition, there are different themed restaurants, and the luxury hotel Cheval Blanc will also be located here, making this one-stop shopping and dining paradise definitely worth looking forward to!
Learn more: La Samaritaine
