Valentino

Valentino is one of the newest additions to Old Bond Street but it’s made quite an entrance.

The West End home of Valentino’s glittering Italian femininity and Rock Stud accessories, a modern-day fashion icon, has been imagined in full Venetian terrazzo glory by British architect Sir David Chipperfield.

Overseen by Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli, and his former Co-Creative Director Maria Grazia Chiuri, the space is industrial, yet chic, with a taste of the outside, inside. Marble slab furniture sits amongst grey scale walls, floors and cylindrical pillars with minimal fuss. It is clear it was designed by an architect more akin to creating world-renowned museums, galleries and studios than plush, homely shopping maisons. It avoids being a harsh environment though, and instead frames the clothing in a way that makes you stand back and admire, while the oak stairwell adds some warmth.

Commenting on the store’s concept at its unveiling, the brand issues a statement saying, “The store concept combines old and new in order to generate a kind of palazzo atmosphere, steering away from a pure showroom and promoting a new retail architectural format in place of a more traditional retail boutique structure.”

In a subtle nod to Valentino’s Italian heritage, the lift has been placed inside the void of the staircase, similar to classic Milanese apartments.

The Old Bond Street store is also one of the few worldwide that offers customers the opportunity to have their coveted guitar straps (a rock ’n’ roll handle alternative for your handbag) personalised.

Additional services include alterations and the opportunity to pick up your online purchases in the boutique.