VALENTINO

In February 2012, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli presented their first store concept in Valentino’s boutique in Milan, stemming from a three-year collaboration with famous British architect David Chipperfield. The store is divided into different areas, each one featuring an iconic element of Valentino’s essence: a vertical mosaic of mirrors in the shoe area; shelves in American hickory for accessories, recalling a gentleman’s library; grey leather in fitting rooms, which makes them cosier and more private; walls covered in white plasterboard; parquet flooring; floors and frames in terrazzo marble. As opposed to the solidity of architectural elements, the collection is shown on subtle displays and shelves in shiny carbon fibres contouring the whole perimeter. The displays are equipped with LED lights, enabling an almost invisible lighting. The lighting system from above mirrors the variety of finishes and spaces, combining hidden diffused light and side white lights in the halls with warm lights and decorated chandeliers at the centre. The interpretation of space and the series of rooms designed by David Chipperfield convey a solemn and intimate feeling, rarely found in a classic boutique.