The workshop for fine harnesses and bridles that Thierry Hermès opened in 1837 has evolved into one of the planet’s most sought after luxury purveyors, revered for its iconic silk scarves and coveted Kelly handbags. While such haute heritage can often translate to an intimidating retail experience, Hermès’ brand-new Meatpacking District flagship embodies a gritty-yet-glam personality, perfectly suited to its neighborhood.
Wander into the 5,330-square-foot space, and you’ll find a cafe near the back of the first floor, outfitted with a communal table, charging ports and clever magazines. The cafe is the first of its kind in Manhattan for the storied French label, part of a new strategy designed to give the boutique a more relaxed atmosphere. That includes generous seating options and open-sell display fixtures, which allow shoppers to inspect wallets and handbags — a rare opportunity as such prized merchandise is usually protected in glass vitrines.
Occupying a historic industrial building that previously served as the photo studio of Annie Leibovitz and Steven Meisel, the two-floor store was brought to life by RDAI architect and designer Denis Montel. There’s a playful synergy between rough-hewn elements that nod to the neighborhood and refined details that pay homage to the label’s globally recognized opulence. Yellow glazed tiles (a riff on the yellow brick facades that dominate Meatpacking), for instance, are complemented with ex-libris tile mosaic based on those from the original Hermès flagship on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. The silver-gray cherry wood used for the furniture and walls was sandblasted to give it an edgier aesthetic.
An original skylight on the second floor illuminates ready-to-wear collections for men and women, joining a robust inventory of jewelry, watches, home decor, shoes and equestrian gear — even those saddles that started it all. Store exclusives include specialty items that speak to the more laid-back ambience: backpacks, skateboard bags, bikes and — in case a Birkin isn’t cutting it for trendsetters — fanny packs. Even staff members are styled with a special look that you probably won’t see at any other Hermès shop: They’re rocking sneakers.
