Inside The New Hermès Boutique

Get thee, post haste, to the beautiful new Hermès boutique, just opened on the corner of Sloane Street and Cadogan Place.

Thirty years since the first Hermès store was opened at 179 Sloane Street in 1987, the house has proudly opened the doors to its new home, almost doubling in size to 400 square metres, which means lots more irresistible treats from the storied Parisian brand.

In rather a poetic move, the original building, located at 1 Cadogan Place, was designed by architect Michael Rosenhauer, who was also responsible for the Time & Life Building in Mayfair, home to Hermès’ other London store.

If you haven’t yet visited, allow us to give you a glimpse at the stunning new space, where every one of Hermès’ 16 métiers has its place.

As you step into the new store, you are greeted by the iconic Ex-Libris Hermès motif in the powder- coloured mosaic flooring, dramatically offset by the vast double-height ceiling. Continuing on, you’ll find the silk and fashion accessories departments and, to the left, there is a breathtaking equestrian collection that leads the way to an intimate round space dedicated to Hermès’ leather goods – yes, this is where you’ll find and covet those Birkin bags.

Tucked under the curve of the unique oak staircase, next to a magnificent Hermès motorcycle, you’ll find fragrances for men and women, the scent of which follows you up the ribbon-shaped staircase that deftly contrasts with the strict geometry of the 1950s building. The handrail is covered in Hermès’ Etoupe leather, lending a sensual touch as you approach the big picture windows that offer a view of the lush gardens in Cadogan Square.

Upstairs, the airy, light-filled first floor is home to the men’s and women’s collections, including ready to wear, shoes, hats, gloves and belts. In between are the Maison and Art de Vivre collections, where you’ll find unutterably chic items for your home.

Lastly, shop the fine jewellery, watches and silver collections in a space that manages to be both visible yet private.

Across both floors, you’ll find strong copper tones, imparting a warm and yet light feel, while store units crafted from European cherry wood, and the Marmorino walls add a subtle shine, as a selection of coordinating fabrics and silk carpets bring a depth of textures.

In the market for something special? The new store will showcase a range of exclusive goodies, including the re-issued London Bag, which was first created in 1962. Available in four unique colourways, the bag nods to the capital through its clasp, which echoes the epaulettes on the London Police Officers’ uniform.

To celebrate the new store, Hermès commissioned artist Fotis Evans to create a duet of window installations based on the concept of a surrealist’s dream of the history and savoir-faire of the house. On one side you’ll see an H-beam crane, in forced perspective, with an Hermès saddle swinging from a rope to honour the house’s strength in craftsmanship; a floating classical window arch engages in a playful interaction with a range of iconic Hermès products as they journey symbolically from creation to completion. In the second window, Evans has depicted a horse – always the Hermès muse – as a brutalist concrete staircase jumping a fence that has been reimagined as the molecular structure of adrenaline, to represent the energy of creativity that exists within Hermès. Clever, non?

Visit the new store now to discover more delights.

Hermès, 1 Cadogan Place, SW1X 9PX.