Leading upstairs is a monumental staircase that anchors the space from the back, with a rationalist, asymmetric composition of marbles, including red Travertino, white Botticino and black Nero Marquina. The staircase’s red stone forms the perimeter of the adjacent ready to wear box, an example of how ongoing conversations of materials and palettes contribute to the eclectic narrative throughout the interiors.
On the second floor, Valentino Women Ready – To – Wear collection displays are defined by a giant red lacquered wardrobe structure and matching seating, contrasting with the chequered floor in white Botticino and black Nero Marquina marbles.
Here, customers can also experience Valentino’s unique client journey inspired by Italian hospitality, with two VIP areas in which the ivory environment references the Maison’s ateliers. Each featuring a sitting room and dressing area including a separated try-on, the rooms are designed to enhance the feeling of intimacy and exclusivity within a carefully curated, apartment-like setting. Bespoke seating and furniture are combined with contemporary chandeliers by American lighting specialist Roll & Hill, chairs by Charles Zana and ceramic objects by Massimiliano Pipolo enhancing the sophisticated domestic effect of the environments.
A different colour narrative is found descending through a sophisticated Botticino and red Travertino, Marquina stairs into the basement, dedicated to Valentino Menswear and defined by a distinctive chromatic and material choices including stark concrete and black parquet with brightly illuminated shelving. Next door, a warmer environment is achieved with lilac flooring matched with mirrored columns, bespoke glass displays and angular green onyx shelving. An iconic 1970s DeSede Snake Sofa adds an intimate dimension to the space, while Mario Bellini’s 1970s Camaleonda sofas and pouffes from the same era appear throughout the boutique.