The French Connection

IN A BLEND OF heritage and modernity, the geometry of the modular glass and French limestone façade of the new Dior flagship is a clear enticement into a transformative experience. Crossing the threshold of the store takes customers on an arousing journey from the streets of New York to the subtle nuances of a refined Parisienne apartment. With all the contemporary accoutrements one might expect, the store on the corner of 57th Street and Madison Avenue is a nod to the heritage of the venerable House of Dior, whose first Manhattan establishment was opened just a block away in 1948.

The four-story boutique, designed by architect Peter Marino, invites visitors into the space with a grand two-story, welcoming lobby. Suggestions of Monsieur Dior’s cherished gardens then serve as a transition from the streets of New York into an idyllic natural setting, where a high-reaching column wrapped in live plants, and a series of abstract flower paintings begin the immersion into the world of Dior.

Another welcoming gesture is the open glass façade with floor-to-ceiling windows allowing for views out into the street and the warmth of natural light into the space. The display within the window is an enticing look into an ecological wonder world of flower and fauna, featuring animatronic birds, butterflies and buzzing bees.

Hand craftsmanship and high-quality surface materials define a well-designed, tactile experience in a high-end environment. Materials include Versailles parquet white oak floors at the entrance and in the women’s areas, golden oak floors in the men’s sections, Venetian plaster, precious woods, and hand-painted silk wallcoverings.

The store, which opened August 6, with offerings of women’s and men’s ready-to-wear, accessories, leather goods, fine jewelry, timepieces, fragrances and an exclusive selection of home goods at the adjacent Dior Maison boutique, is anchored by a travertine staircase with leather-wrapped handrails. Adorning the stairwell is a continuous diorama showcasing a color story of hats and accessories along with miniature scale models of brand-specific items such as dresses, handbags, perfume bottles and hats.

Travertine flooring transitions guide the customer journey from point to point as linen-covered mannequins in a soft bisque color announce product offerings in each section. Completing the experience is a curated art collection including works by Robert Mapplethorpe, Karine Laval, Azuma Makoto and Jennifer Steinkamp.

The artistry of the couturier Christian Dior and the architect Peter Marino whisk people off the streets of New York into another time, another place, and another state of mind.

Photography: Eric Feigenbaum (23 photos)