Haute Secrets: Inside Hermès’ New Home on Sloane Street

Photo Credit: Andrew Meredith

Founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermes, the iconic french fashion house has enthralled us for 180 years. Synonymous with elegance and style, Hermès has a history as rich and vibrant as the colours and fabrics it crafts its signature masterpieces with.  Exactly three decades ago, Hermès opened its first boutique in Chelsea at 179 Sloane Street. The boutique has relocated to a stone’s throw up the same street to a new seductive multi-storey home at 1 Cadogan Place. The increased space will be home to all 16 of its métiers, allowing the creativity of the house to be gloriously exhibited.

Photo Credit: Andrew Meredith

The Cadogan Place property marks a new chapter in the brand’s London narrative. The building’s facade was originally designed by Michael Rosenhauer, who is also responsible for the Hermès flagship on New Bond Street. As a brand which respects the value of tradition and old roots, Hermès reunited with longstanding collaborators RDAI Architecture for their new store; The Parisian architects who have created over 300 store designs for Hermès over the course of 40 years.

Photo Credit: Andrew Meredith

Upon entering the new store, you’ll be struck by several features intended to exemplify their impeccable standing in couture. The sweeping oak staircase connecting the two floors is a mark of grandeur and traditional Parisian grace. The leather Hermès motorbike is a reminder of the fashion house’s roots and all-encompassing capabilities. No matter your heart’s desire, Hermès will handcraft your dreams to reality. The mosaic tiled entrance, stamped with the brand motif calls to the heritage and history of Hermès – indisputably a fashion house for the ages.

Photo Credit: Andrew Meredith

The Hermès influence reaches far beyond wearable high fashion. Those seeking touches of french chic in all aspects of daily living will be satiated by stylish housewares, impeccable leather goods and lifestyle accessories, to name a few. Of course we must not fail to pay tribute to the coveted carryalls, most notably the Kelly and Birkin bags, named for star icons Grace Kelly and Jane Birkin.

1 Cadogan Place, London SW1X 9PX