Hermès of Paris -
Madison Avenue, NY
Hermès, French luxury fashion house established in 1837
Since 2011, Spacesmith has collaborated with Hermès of Paris on over a dozen boutiques across the U.S. Most recently, we partnered with RDAI to design a flagship store on Madison Avenue and 63rd Street, the second largest Hermès store globally. Inspired by the Manhattan skyline and Art Deco style, the design showcases Hermès’ commitment to craftsmanship while incorporating modern elements to attract younger clientele.
The project involved transforming a 1921 Federalist building, a former bank, and integrating it with two adjacent five-story structures. The result is a 20,600-square-foot retail space, with an additional 14,000 square feet for offices and back-of-house functions. Intimate salons, each dedicated to one of Hermès’ 16 métiers, flow seamlessly through carefully crafted portals. Unique materials and finishes enhance each department’s identity, with generous seating and open displays creating an inviting atmosphere.
The ground floor features fashion jewelry, perfume, silk scarves, beauty products, men’s leather goods, and a coffee bar.
The second floor houses home furnishings, the men’s department, and a private lounge for custom tailoring. The third floor offers women’s fashion, luxurious seating, and fine jewelry. On the fourth floor, women’s handbags are displayed under a dramatic double-height skylight, complemented by a rooftop terrace with native plants and a cocktail bar.
A striking Portuguese limestone staircase, adorned with artwork by Antoine Carbonne, connects the retail levels. Spacesmith collaborated with over 60 consultants, focusing first on structural modifications and then on translating RDAI’s design into reality. Notable achievements include the integration of a post-tensioned limestone staircase, coordination of a custom skylight, and meticulous execution of double-curved wall finishes. Revit was used for precise 3D modeling, ensuring a seamless construction process.
This flagship project exemplifies Spacesmith’s dedication to delivering refined, sophisticated retail environments that reflect the timeless elegance of Hermès.
Photo Credit: Kevin Scott