Redefining Tradition: La Samaritaine Store by ciguë

LVMH has entrusted ciguë with the task of bringing its unique vision to life at the newly reopened La Samaritaine department store. Spanning three floors along the Rue de Rivoli, ciguë continues to redefine Parisian archetypes, building upon the foundation laid by Sanaa’s striking undulating glass facade.

Architectural Narrative

The journey begins with a casting of a colonne Morris, an iconic Parisian feature, at the entrance, offering a glimpse of what lies within. Greek sculptures encircle a rotunda, paying homage to the nearby Louvre, while white deckchairs evoke the ambiance of the Tuileries or the Palais-Royal. A sloping Haussmann-era facade crafted from artificial stone situates La Samaritaine within an imaginary Paris, blending past and present seamlessly.

Deconstructed Elegance

Within the store, walls have been artfully cut through to reveal roof frames crafted from recycled timber juxtaposed with ultra-modern steel rivets, hooks, and handles designed by ciguë. Tables and chairs, some with missing legs, lean against contemporary blocks, creating a striking contrast that celebrates the interplay between old and new.

Adaptive Design

Despite its seemingly chaotic appearance, the layout of La Samaritaine is meticulously designed to allow for flexible reconfiguration of the retail areas. Mobile racks, shelves, and tables invite brands to occupy the space while maintaining the store’s cohesive aesthetic. The interior, curated by ciguë, exudes an air of fluidity, inviting customers to explore freely and indulge in culinary delights at Foodtrucks and cafes scattered throughout.

Reflecting the Essence

A unifying metal grid stretches across the ceiling, diffusing light throughout the building and reflecting the vibrant energy of the bustling city below. This design ethos encapsulates the spirit of La Samaritaine as a flagship store in a city defined by constant reinvention, where fragments of the past are reimagined to reveal meaningful truths in contemporary contexts.

In essence, ciguë’s interpretation of La Samaritaine celebrates the timeless allure of Parisian elegance while embracing the ever-evolving landscape of modernity. Through thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail, La Samaritaine emerges as a beacon of innovation and sophistication in the heart of the city.