Today sees the opening of the hotly anticipated Dries Van Noten flagship store in Los Angeles. The critically acclaimed designer from Antwerp already has a number of notable depositories in the city, but this time, it makes a mark in the retail landscape with a standalone store all its own. The fashion house occupies a 1940s building which was previously occupied by Opening Ceremony, and measures 8,500 sq.ft. (790 sqm.) set across two houses separated by a vast parking lot. The so-called Big House, situated directly alongside North La Cienega Boulevard, features two floors and The Little House is in fact an open plan space. The interior design, created by designer Dries Van Noten and his team, very much reflect the designer’s artistic vision, oozing a cultured elegance and a Bohemian savoir-faire. Upon entering the store, shoppers are greeted by a Steinway grand piano, paired with a yellow leather-clad sofa, invites pianists of all kinds to step into the limelight.
A dramatic corridor leads from the entrance, providing a distant glimpse of an ornate chandelier in Murano glass. Most furniture has been repurposed and are mixed and matched with pieces by Rotterdam-based French designer Johan Viladrich who is known for his highly industrial aesthetic. The premises are infused with artwork by artists from Los Angeles, and interestingly, they’ve been invited to even paint directly on the walls of the rooms presenting the men’s and women’s collections. Speaking of which, the women’s collection is presented on the ground floor while the second floor is the men’s domain. Both floors feature an archive room presenting a selection of garments and accessories from past collections for purchase, and that’s not all—even customers are allowed to re-sell their trophy pieces. Both The Big House and The Little House also exhibit works by artists, designers and craftspeople whose work has impressed Van Noten, so expect a rotation of shows when you visit the store.
The inaugural show is by none other than celebrated fellow Antwerp Six member Ann Demeulemeester, featuring refined tableware and lighting in porcelain, glass and metal, while also jewellery pieces by London-based designer Alan Crocetti and sculptures of Czech artist Richard Stipl will be presented. The Dries Van Noten flagship store makes a big effort to celebrate art and creativity, and does so on different levels. The aforementioned parking lot is to host exhibition openings, gatherings and food tasting catered by pioneering chefs and restaurants, while the store itself also will present a selection of books, whether used, rare or newly released, which have played a role in inspiring past collections. Additionally, a roster of personalities are invited each month to curate a selection of vintage and current vinyls, available for purchase or play in the Sound & Vision area on the men’s floor, starting with popular Belgian duo 2 Many DJs.
Dries Van Noten
451 North La Cienega Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Telephone: +1 310 8806125
Mon-Sat 11-7
Sun 12-5
Publishers Note
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