Van Cleef & Arpels
Palm Beach, Florida
Anouska Hempel Design

The height of luxury is appropriate for this French icon

© Mike Butler

For more photos click on 'photos & drawings' above. To see the people and products behind this project click on 'people & products.'

In 2001 the French jewelry company Van Cleef and Arpels undertook the launch of a new image for their global chain of boutiques, a task they entrusted to Anouska Hempel Design. The new concept seeks to encapsulate the spirit of glamour, femininity, and sensuality, the hallmark of the prestigious French brand, founded at the beginning of the 20th century in their renowned Place Vendome premises in Paris.

Boutiques in Paris, Monaco, Japan, and the U.S. have been recently unveiled, with the latest Flagship store opening on Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills. The Palm Beach boutique was opened in late 2001. The clarity of the architectural organization and elegant detailing of fine materials in this facility has resulted in an environment of restrained luxury.

A subtle monochrome palette of green-gray walls in limestone, plaster, and fabrics creates an understated ambience, enlivened by dashes of color in banners, cushions, and ribbons, incorporated into the furnishings to focus on the display. The single color used is changed seasonally.

The articulation of color is echoed in the materials and textures selected. Dark stone floors define the axis and contrast with the soft green plush carpets of the personal sales areas. Luxury is implied with the richness of the upholstery and soft silks, complemented by the finely crafted display cases. Meticulously folded stainless steel display cabinets with inset shagreen and mother of pearl details are framed by larger lacquered furniture.

Formal name of Project:
Van Cleef & Arpels

Location:
Palm Beach, Fla.

Gross square footage:
2,640 sq. ft.

Total Construction Cost:
$960,000

Owner:
Van Cleef & Arpels, New York City

Concept Architect:
Anouska Hempel Design
15 Bury Walk
London SW3 6QD
United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7589 1657
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7589 8907
mail@anouskahempeldesign.com
www.anouskahempeldesign.com

Executive Architect:
TPG Architecture, LLP (The Phillips Group)
11 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036
212 768 0800
Fax 212 768 1597
www.tpgarchitecture.com