fine jewelry collection floats within monolithic translucent wall in parisian boutique

a second Charlotte Chesnais’ boutique in Paris by Anne Holtrop

Dutch architect Anne Holtrop has once again joined forces with Charlotte Chesnais to complete a second jewelry boutique on Boulevard Saint Germain, Paris. The showroom reflects the distinctive design vocabulary used in the first space, introducing some surprising twists. A monolithic translucent structure that resembles a curved frozen waterfall connects the two display tables on the sides. Entering the space, the crystal-clear wall dominates the interior and becomes a centerpiece housing the fine pieces.

The exhibits are nestled within the transparent acrylic mass, in a series of carved-out cabinets and drawers, which makes them appear as if they are floating on ice. ‘Drawers and cabinets are carved directly out of the natural grooves and relief of the artificial material, further underlining its highly contemporary yet historical feel,‘ shares the architect. Natural light penetrates the storefronts enabling the sinuous architectural pieces cast subtle shadows on and within the acrylic wall.

all images by James Nelson

stepping inside the glass-cabinet jewelry showroom

The large 3D CNC-cut acrylic sheets generate natural reliefs created by the drilling, giving off a timeless yet contemporary feel. Behind the acrylic wall, the architects set up a sculptural staircase that coils around itself and rises upwards to the high ceiling interior guiding toward a more confidential setting — a dark green high gloss mezzanine level that houses the brand’s fine collections.

‘The boutique is defined by contrasts that play with its constraints. Centered on verticality and intimacy, the space encloses a unique and timeless atmosphere, where the very large sets the stage for the very small,’ said the brand.

‘From the deep jade green with lichen hues, and the felted tones of the thick carpeting, the creator’s 70s inspirations are for the first time brought to the fore. A space from another era. An anachronistic wink, hinted through the reflections of the soft light on the lacquered walls.’

the collections are suspended ‘in both time and space’

‘I discovered Paris through the Rive Gauche. I walked its streets as a child, and later lived there. It’s a place onto which I projected my fantasies of a very elegant, and perhaps a bit cliché, Parisian microcosm. To open my second boutique there is an accomplishment of which I’m proud,’ shared Charlotte Chesnais.

for this boutique, the designer takes a vertical approach