New York City, often celebrated as the cultural epicenter of the United States, is renowned for its dynamic blend of Broadway shows, iconic pizza, and spectacular department stores. Recently, the city’s luxury retail scene welcomed a notable addition: the Parisian luxury retailer, Printemps. This storied brand, which first opened its doors in Paris’s ninth arrondissement in 1865, has chosen the historically significant Wall Street location for its first American flagship store.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Laura Gonzalez
Location: Wall Street, New York City
Original Architect: Ralph Thomas Walker
Year Founded: 1865
Store Size: 50,000 square feet
This new outpost, spanning over 50,000 square feet across two floors, is a mere fraction of the size compared to its European counterparts, yet it promises an equally luxurious experience. Distinguished by five diverse food and beverage offerings, the space has been skillfully crafted by Parisian architect Laura Gonzalez. Gonzalez has brilliantly harmonized the storied legacy of Printemps with the rich architectural heritage of the existing structure, originally designed in the late 1920s by Ralph Thomas Walker. This convergence of Art Deco charm and contemporary design encapsulates the vibrant spirit of New York, a city known for endless possibilities and unbounded creativity.
At the heart of Printemps’ new venue is the Beauty Corridor, a testament to modern, otherworldly design that immediately transports visitors into the future of retail. The interiors pay tribute to Printemps’ signature elements—mosaics, stained glass, and intricate patterns—while simultaneously weaving in the Manhattan identity. The result is a space that feels distinctly New York, yet unmistakably Printemps. Clothes, shoes, and beauty products are displayed like curated treasures in specialized zones, turning the act of shopping into an experience of discovery.
A focal point of this new space is the Playroom, a multifaceted area that merges casualwear shopping with social and leisure activities. The room features an all-day café where visitors can relax, as well as a uniquely immersive Sneaker Room, highlighted by an expansive LED ceiling screen. The Playroom illustrates the essence of the Printemps ethos: a harmonious blend of fashion, comfort, and community engagement, making each visit an experience rather than a mere retail transaction.
On the second floor, the allure continues in the Salon, a carefully curated haven of women’s ready-to-wear and accessories. With intricate wood floors and floral-patterned rugs echoing the classical elegance of the Paris flagship store, the Salon exudes sophistication and charm. Complementing this space is the Salon Vert, a raw bar with Parisian aesthetics, overlooking the bustling Broadway and adorned with exquisite hand-painted tiles. Such thoughtful attention to detail elevates the retail experience, making each step reminiscent of a French garden stroll.
The opulent journey through Printemps wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Red Room, an enchanting area enveloped in a deep red ombré with gold mosaic details. This whimsical space leads into the ‘shoe forest,’ an imaginative environment that seems to spring from a fairytale, particularly one that blends luxury with a playful edge. Every corner of Printemps is designed to invite interaction—whether you’re trying on a new outfit or soaking in the ambiance, the space encourages exploration and engagement. In a setting so beautifully crafted, everything seems to be enhanced, ensuring that visitors leave not only with memorable purchases but also with a sense of being part of something truly special.
