Louis Vuitton is set to open its redesigned soho store in New York. The entire 11,000 square foot interior has been overhauled by architect Peter Marino, who worked closely with artists Shuji Mukai and Giuseppe Penone during the project. The Retail Outlet first opened in 1998, and has consistently been chosen to host some of the fashion house’s most important global events. In developing the scheme, Peter Marino sought to engage with Soho’s cultural, historical, and architectural context.

Installed within a protected cast iron structure dating back to the 1880s, the redesign incorporates many of the building’s original architectural details. The reimagined Louis Vuitton store has been conceived as an art gallery, with a streamlined design and lighting concept. Textured custom finishes and furnishings contrast the otherwise sleek appearance, with objects made of petrified and recycled wood, leather, brass, and stone.

Japanese artist Shuji Mukai was commissioned to hand-paint three columns within the store, with a design that relates directly to the gutai art movement popular in the 1950s and 60s. Peter Marino angled the wall behind the columns to make the artwork a focal point, while simultaneously re-directing circulation.

In addition, Italian artist Giuseppe Penone has installed pieces made of molded leather and bronze — materials employed to lend the scheme a “natural ruggedness”. The interiors also include the maracatu and cocoon chair designed by the Campana Brothers, and the concertina chair and table by Raw Edges.

Design: Peter Marino
Photography: Paul Warchol

http://www.designboom.com/architecture/louis-vuitton-new-york-soho-store-peter-marino-shuji-mukai-giuseppe-penone-12-20-2016/