Vudafieri-Saverino Partners signs Delvaux’s new flagship store in Tokyo, in the center of Omotesando, a chic shopping area surrounded by the stores of renowned global fashion labels. The conceptual space combines the retail experience with the brand’s heritage. The Milan-based architecture studio expresses the core values of the Maison with luxury and savoir-faire, blending its Belgianness with the charm of Japan.
The new Delvaux store in Tokyo’s Omotesando district follows the visual language of the House of forty worldwide locations, founded in Brussels in 1829, while retaining its own identity. The two-storey, 250 m2 boutique is part of the famous Omotesando Hills shopping center designed by Japanese architect Tadao Ando. A large golden tree, inspired by the crown of the factory’s logo, climbs from the lower level to the second floor of the spectacular glass façade, serving as both backdrop and artistic front for the products on display. At the entrance, parts of the showcase are highlighted by LED strips in the colors of the Belgian flag, and throughout, the brand’s imprint is reflected in the choice of furnishings, luxury materials and lighting. The open, beautiful interiors are designed by Claudio Saverino and Tiziano Vudafieri, each with a different temperament. The entrance welcomes guests into a comfortable environment defined by the warmth of parquet flooring, hand-finished white walls and sober, minimalist wall displays. The curved shelf is a modern interpretation of the famous Flemish armoire. A large-scale representation of Brussels’ Grand-Place, whose decorative and aesthetic richness extends to the upper floor, lines the staircase. Black-and-white photographs of its Gothic and Baroque buildings provide the ideal backdrop for the colors and shapes of the bags and accessories. On the first floor, the lounge, clad in burgundy velvet, overlooks a European square, and the bar, with its burnished brass counter, is a place of exchange as well as a display for leather goods. The wrought-iron banister on the staircase pays homage to the first store to open in Brussels, dating back to the 18th century. A lounge with custom-made furniture and a Golran silk and wool rug is located on the upper floor. With six wooden sconces designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and manufactured by the Japanese company Yamagiwa, the chandelier, custom-made by Vudafieri-Saverino Partners, is a real eye-catcher.
