Introduction to a Unique Retail Experience

In recent developments in the luxury retail sector, designer Tijs Verveken, in partnership with Dries Van Noten’s new creative director Julian Klausner, emphasizes the importance of location-specific design in his latest New York store. This approach has been a hallmark of the brand, seeking to harmonize the interior with the unique characteristics of its surrounding environment.

Distinctive Elements of the New Store

The New York store reflects an intricate blend of antiques and artistic elements, curated thoughtfully by Verveken and his husband, Patrick Vangerwe. With a stated mission that “not every city in the world has a formula that you want to apply to,” Verveken adapts his vision to match the local culture and architecture. The store pays homage to its predecessors, like the Hanover Square location in London, which previously operated in a bank building—resulting in a distinctly English atmosphere adorned with works by famous artists such as David Hockney and Tracey Emin.

Artistic Inspirations and Collaborations

The New York store is described as “monumental,” with a theatrical feel that captures the attention of its visitors. Key features include:

• Renowned French and English paintings dating back to the 16th century.
• Illuminating torches from the collection of late designer Iris Apfel.
• Italian tables from the 1960s season, adding a vintage touch to the contemporary space.
• A striking installation by Belgian artist Ben Storms, featuring marble and crushed aluminum complements.

Verveken intricately ties the artwork to personal memories, such as a wall of gold leaf that resonates with his final show last June, describing it as “so bold.”

A Vision for Retail Evolution

This store represents Verveken’s expansion into a more immersive retail experience, following his successful establishment of a Los Angeles store five years prior. The New York venue continues this legacy through innovative spaces like the Lasier Nega Space, designed for a modern lifestyle and featuring dedicated sections for vintage archives, vinyl records, and compact display homes, illustrating his versatile aesthetic vision.