Occupying four floors of the Hulic Ginza Sukiyabashi Building, featuring a striking façade design by Tokyo-based practice Klein Dytham architecture, the new CARTIER store at Ginza is the brand’s largest in Asia. The façade reflects Cartier‘s refinement and endless craftsmanship.
The smooth curves, contrasting with the linearity of the rest of the building’s façade and surrounding cityscape, create a simple and elegant presence. The geometric pattern of linked fan shapes is inspired by the seigaiha or ‘waves of the blue ocean’, a pattern that has long been used in traditional Japanese fabrics and artwork.
The interior design is created by Moinard Bétaille, an interior design practice and longtime collaborator based in Paris, and features a so-called residence retail concept which is dotted with various works by Japanese artists and a unique Japanese aesthetic. Upon entering the premises, shoppers find an elegant retail space which embodies the luxury brand’s Panthère, and there’s even an art wall created by Japanese Washi artist Eriko Horiki depicting a Panthère traversing a forest.
The setting, which presents jewellery, watches, accessories, gifts and fragrances, is framed by stone flooring featuring a parquet pattern borrowed from the Palace of Versailles and an origami-inspired ceiling. Near the elegant staircase, a service bar can be found, designed with inspiration from the organic form of orchid petals.
One floor up, diamond creations, bridal jewellery, accessories and gifts are showcased in a setting featuring once again an origami-inspired ceiling paired with curved, undulating, and oval panels, and also floor panels decorated with ginkgo leaf motifs. Also to be found here is the Salon Japonais, displaying a refined work of Japanese sculptor Ryo Hikosaka which is inspired by a 1907 diamond brooch featuring abstract geometric patterns, a hallmark of the Modern Style advocated by Louis Cartier in the early days of the era. The third floor of the Cartier store sees ceiling is inspired by the timelessly beloved Trinity ring and features a motif of interwoven curves. The garden-inspired settings also present the Cartier fragrances.
Additionally, there are not one, but two sumptuously designed spaces where shoppers can sit back and relax in between shopping sprees—a salon designed with a peacock theme and special space called Jardin, or ‘garden’ in English. The so-called Residences on the top floor of the Cartier store are private spaces worthy of a luxury maison, offering the ultimate in hospitality for exclusive, special events.
The ceiling is reminiscent of a traditional Japanese umbrella, enveloping the entire space and creating a sense of security. The design, comprised of dark wood ribs and white, harmonises opposing elements, such as smoothness and texture, tradition and modernity, straight lines and curves. The Grand Salon is furnished with dining tables and sofas, overlooking a lush landscaped garden beyond the large glass windows
Cartier new store at Ginza in Tokyo
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