Pierre Hardy's Palais Bourbon Concept Store: An Architectural Playground
Quietly opened to insiders-in-the-know in February 2009, the second Pierre Hardy retail location in Paris has been lauded for its architectural details. The Palais Bourbon store, completely renovated, boasts an interior that blends brushed and polished metals, using lights and shadows to add dimension and depth to the historical space. The space echoes the design of Hardy’s first store in the Palais Royal in Paris; a monochrome black box is organized behind the facade, in three successive levels, punctuated by arches. The nine large windows that face the cobblestoned-lined Place du Palais Bourbon and the Rue de Bourgogne host amazing displays featuring Hardy’s designs.
Lacquered parquet floors, alternating matte and polished surfaces, satin-brushed steel framed mirrors, and strategically placed lights make this store a playground of décor—brilliant enough to dazzle the eye, while subdued enough to let Hardy’s bags and shoes take center stage.
The historical Palais Bourbon location is at the heart of the 7th arrondissement and carries Pierre Hardy’s men’s, women’s, and accessory lines.
Known for architectural and avant-garde footwear designs for women and ornate sneakers for men, Pierre Hardy originally studied fine arts and dance. Before launching his namesake line in 1999, he designed footwear for the houses of Dior, Hermes, and Balenciaga. He was named Footwear News International’s “Designer of the Year” in 2006. Ignoring fashion trends, Hardy prefers to find inspiration in art and architecture, playing with volume, proportions and graphic images. In 2010, Pierre Hardy collaborated with GAP to bring his fashion-forward designs to the mass market.
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