Our long standing client, Manolo Blahnik has collaborated once again with Nick Leith-Smith, this time in Geneva. This is the brand’s first store in Switzerland and represents a symbolic homecoming for Blahnik who attended university in the Swiss city in the 1960’s and where his cultural curiosities evolved.

The 860-square foot stand-alone boutique is situated on Geneva’s prodigious central Rue de la Corraterie, with the interior drawing inspiration from architect Josef Hoffmann.

Nick’s design employs precisely engineered clean lines, polka dots and simple geometric shapes with exposed original stonework and brickwork providing contrasting shapes and textures. Large mirrors add a sense of spaciousness whilst also playing with the idea of reflected history.

One of the most unique design features is the rectangular wall slats, rotated to create floating plinth displays for each shoe and allow for a custom configuration for each collection. An eclectic selection of furniture is used throughout with radical pieces such as the chequered monochromatic sofa playfully contrasting with the refined crocodile embossed leather original Hoffman chairs, sourced from an LA gallery. Other details include FLOS lighting and elegant custom rugs by The Rug Company, London. Manolo’s own signature bold framed illustrations adorn the walls.

The store speaks to the Swiss love of craftsmanship and detail and is a meditative gallery-like space sympathetic to the cultural history of it’s location, while providing a distinctive space to shop and appreciate Blahnik’s creations.