Maison Moynat : Paris Shop Interior

Maison Moynat Paris

Maison Moynat, The Revival of Historical Malletier Brand in Paris

Design: Gwenael Nicolas of Curiosity, Tokyo

Gwenael Nicolas of Curiosity has been commissioned to direct the graphic and architectural design of Moynat, the illustrious French malletier (trunk maker) founded in Paris in 1849. One of the oldest malletiers, this historic brand was recently revived by Bernard Arnault and opened its new boutique, in Paris, in December 2011.

The heritage of the original brand has been given new meaning, transforming the curved forms and unique details into contemporary leather goods. The original store of the brand founded by Madame Pauline Moynat was on Avenue de l'Opera, a few streets away from its current location.


photograph : Jimmy Cohrssen

The first impression is a feeling of harmony, where one main element captures your attention. A central glass column presents Moynat icons: its original trunks in different color and shapes. Soft light emanates from a glass ceiling, reminiscent of the art deco period that influenced the style of Moynat.

Entrance


photographs : Jimmy Cohrssen

The new store opened its doors at 348, rue St. Honoré, in Paris. The discovery of the space starts with a striking facade inspired by the "Havane" color of the original Moynat trunks: multi-layered, textured glass glows with subtle lines of amber. The design is a statement of the brand's tradition, yet brings a contemporary element to the streets of Paris. “Les Malles Moynat” is displayed on the front beside the year of establishment, "Maison fondée en 1849".

Interior


photographs : Jimmy Cohrssen

The boutique is an invitation to travel through the circular space that encircles the column. The floor, composed of a titanium-coated glass mosaic, reflects light with a water-like effect. As you move through the different areas, the Moynat collection is revealed, with new products presented next to the original ones in a constant dialogue.

Carefully crafted lighting emphasizes each item to reveal the subtlety of textures and detailing. The display shelves are crafted from refined materials - washed French oak with leather trim - in a composition of vertical MEZZANINE lines from floor to ceiling. The oak flooring fans out from the centre, inviting us to step further in.

Mezzanine


photographs : Jimmy Cohrssen

The ground floor is an open space, the mezzanine offers a more intimate environment, with a salon, a gallery and the men’s collection. The space opens to a large counter for special orders, lit by the glass ceiling, and an open salon with custom-designed sofas inspired by the curves of the trunks. Unique, historical trunks created by Moynat through the ages are presented in a gallery framed by the original “Havane” color of the brand.

Graphics


photographs : Masayuki Hayashi

The products are wrapped and placed in a "Havane" colored bag with leather handles and a badge stamped with the logo, MOYNAT PARIS. A limited edition book introducing the history of Moynat, past and present, was presented in an Urushi box, shaped like the original curved trunk.

Maison Moynat images / information received from Curiosity 030212