A new Manolo Blahnik flagship store is opening at 717 Madison Avenue, a magnificent space fit to celebrate the brand’s anticipated return to New York. On June 4th the new US headquarters will open to the public, the 1923 landmark building showcasing a collection with more range and creativity than ever before.
The flagship will mark the first time the full Men’s and Women’s collections will be offered together in New York, the store divided by two separate and symmetrical storefronts. The lavish interior is designed by David Thomas, award-winning interior decorator, in collaboration with Manolo Blahnik and Kristina Blahnik. The expansive space is inspired by a 21st century take on ‘Hollywood Regency’. Hand-painted Regency-style stripes and classic marble floors accentuate the elegance of the space, while grand columns and a set of 5 incredibly rare Venini “Tronchi” vintage glass chandeliers from Murano, Italy are the showstoppers. The signature color palette of soft gray and white is a refined background for the rich textures and colors of the collection.
The men’s space is framed by peacock-blue lacquered fixtures, shoes displayed on tonal shelves. The luxurious space is grounded by a free-standing, functional brass bar. The central ‘hub’ of the space, the bar will serve an array of non-alcoholic options, continuing the tradition of a social shopping experience from the original Old Church Street location.
Shoes are displayed on marble consoles and individual plaster wall plinths cast by London artisans. The emphasis on color and textural contrasts is seen throughout the collection, with patchwork patterns, color-blocking, and monochromatic stripes.
Not only will the flagship house Men’s and Women’s collections, but it will also showcase exclusive designs, including a capsule dedicated to Manolo Blahnik’s admiration of New York. This collection, featuring deep reds, browns, and emerald green, is inspired by the luxurious interiors by artist Tony Duquette. Calf leather, moiré silk, and delicate metal eyelets come together to create a cohesive elegance fitting for New York.
“New York has always evoked a great sense of excitement for me, a city of endless possibilities,” says Manolo Blahnik. “So, it is an honour for me to open on Madison Avenue, an exquisite location, which I remember fondly from our formative years.”
717 Madison represents a new way for Manolo Blahnik to connect with long-standing clients and reach new ones. The magnificence space showcasing the full range of Men’s and Women’s collections together is the perfect way to experience the iconic brand, and the luxurious yet comfortable atmosphere of the flagship brings Mr. Blahnik’s New York vision to life.
words by Emma Ungaro
