Valentino’s new boutique is touching down on 654 Madison Avenue.
Following their recent global retail concept established in 2022, focusing on unique spaces based on a reinterpretation of the building’s structure through different sales experiences and approaches to interior architecture, the new Manhattan flagship store serves as a key location for Valentino devotees. With a 1142 sqm selling space, the new building faces Madison Avenue and 60th Street. Composed of three floors that include a basement, a ground floor, a mezzanine, and a second floor, iconic columns and tall windows surround the space, designed to offer a glimpse into the materials and architectural silhouettes that are the essence of the boutique’s interiors.
Each floor holds a unique visual narrative based on chromatic compositions and carefully curated materials palettes, with the maison’s use of the iconic red tone. Upon entry, customers are greeted with a pair of grand double doors adorned with sculptural marble handles, with their organic shapes modeled on creations by artisans, whose work is featured throughout stores worldwide. The same handles can be spotted inside the store, made in ceramic and modeled by the ceramicist Massimiliano Pipolo. Customers can view the immense characteristics of the building, with seven-meter-high ceilings, exposed iconic steel columns (running across all floors), and a rough concrete finish over the perimeter punctuated by illuminated shelving for Valentino Garavani Accessories.
The space is divided into functions via bespoke elements that include an imposing green onyx display unit placed at the center, along with different materials and textures such as marble carpets and concrete on the floors, outlining areas and functions. Towards the back of the store are several interpretations of the iconic Rosso Valentino, where customers can also find an area for footwear with floors and seating in a travertine red contrasting with the luminous onyx and concrete shelving. On the second floor, the Valentino Women Ready–to–Wear collection displays are in giant red lacquered wardrobe structures and matching seating, with contrasting chequered floors in white Botticino and black Nero Marquina marbles.
On this floor, 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. VIP areas include a sitting room and dressing area with a separate try-on, designed to enhance the feeling of intimacy and exclusivity within an apartment-like setting. Chandeliers are designed with contemporary motifs by American lighting specialist Roll & Hill, with chairs by Charles Zana and ceramic objects by Massimiliano Pipolo.
An iconic 1970s DeSede Snake Sofa adds an intimate dimension to the space, while Mario Bellini’s 1970s Camaleonda sofas and poufs from the same era appear throughout the boutique. The flagship makes its debut through a partnership with New York museum Magazzino Italian Art. A diverse gallery presents Mario Schifano’s large-scale paintings, a collaboration that intensifies Valentino’s continued commitment to global art and visual culture.
The Valentino new Flagship store on Madison Avenue will open to the public on November 8th, 2023.