The store at Boulevard Haussmann has been designed uniquely for its sensational location, built on the 3rd floor balcony with a spectacular view of the Dome of the Galeries. Crafted with locally sourced wood and black marble, brass, glass and metal, the store takes its inspiration from the world of fashion that defines Galeries Lafayette and combines this with the very core of Starbucks – coffee. The iconic Starbucks espresso cup was repurposed as building material, to reflect the brand mission: “one person, one cup, one neighborhood.” 7,400 espresso cups were stacked to cover parts of the walls and build the counter, creating an abstract relief that mixes with other materials.
The store is also a coffee gallery, taking customers on a journey to discover the story of Starbucks coffee heritage and expertise. Before ordering, customers can view a showcase that explains Starbucks roasting process: it is not just a time, temperature or color, it is a philosophy. Another one is devoted to sharing how geography affects the beans’ flavor through tree art featuring the origin and flavor of 9 different coffees.
To offer a magnificent view of the Dome, the seats are arranged on the edge of the balcony, along a marble and brass bar. This refined contemporary store will be a stylish new addition to the French capital store portfolio, giving Galeries Lafayette customers the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing coffee break during their shopping experience with this store inside a store.