rafael de cardenas designs surreal london jewel box for delfina delettrez

rafael de cárdenas designs surreal london jewel box for delfina delettrez
all images courtesy of delfina delettrez

a contemporary cabinet de curiosité, delfina delettrez‘s recently realized london storefront showcases her full collection, including the ‘piercing’ series, and limited-edition pieces specifically for the store. located at 109 mount street, the space is comprised of two floors for a total area of 650ft². 

new york/london-based architect rafael de cárdenas collaborated with delettrez to create a location that romantically explores materials and shapes in a way that mimics her own sensibility. co-existing materials from matte to reflective, industrial to organic, and unexpected mixes of metals and textures define the interior. walls are lined with green mirrors, giving the illusion of an infinite expanse pressing beyond the actual limits of reality. the jewelry is multiplied, reflected and magnified in a way that feels surreal, making visitors feel that they themselves inhabit one of her pieces. 

the space is dominated by a trompe l’oeil treated to look like malachite

traditional italian design is combined with a futuristic aesthetic in homage to delettrez’s heritage and innovations. 1950’s italian modernist furniture including fontana arte and gio ponti were sourced to complete the interior. a dynamic, multifunctional lower level functions as a dedicated private lounge. here, is where high jewelry pieces including the ‘HANDroid’ platinum edition rings and one-off creations are housed. 

video courtesy of rafael de cárdenas

the design reflects delettrez’s commitment to the excellence of Italian craft and postmodern influences

signature ‘piercing’ rings on display

1950’s italian modernist furniture completes the interior

‘eye kiss you’ pearl necklace, created exclusively for the mount street location

green mirrors line the walls behind displays creating an infinity effect

precise, clean lines are used throughout the space 

mirrors and glass displays create the illusion of floating stones

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