Preview: Louis Vuitton’s New Design District Boutique

Impeccable finishes, walls exhibiting pieces by local artists and Ready-to-Wear that injects contemporary edge into a classic fashion brand is just some of what you’ll find at Louis Vuitton’s brand-new, five story boutique in the heart of Miami’s Design District. Refurbished vintage furniture, display cases and drawers with gold inlay and historic photography captured by NASA in the 1960s are more of the details we found particularly notable when we previewed the new digs last week.

If you haven’t taken a stroll down NE 39^th street lately (between NE 1^st and 2^nd avenues, to be exact) you may want to make time for one. The thriving neighborhood is the materialization of Craig Robins’ unwavering vision, making the Design District Miami’s very own Rodeo Drive (only better).

Of the many stores opening in the area, Louis Vuitton has revealed its now permanent location. To reflect the rich architectural history unique to Miami Beach, the store’s interior design includes Art Deco elements with a 1950s tropical modernism aesthetic, while Jun Aoki and Mirei Uchibe designed the store’s graphic façade. The impressive boutique features exclusive products for men and women, including the limited edition Capucines bag in exotic textures like crocodile and ostrich. Iconic travel cases are located at the top of the first staircase (complete with glass paneling and handrails wrapped in LV’s signature Nomade leather) and include custom linings specific to the Design District store location in coral and blue, with monogramming services provided on-site.

Newly minted Artistic Director, Nicolas Ghesquière’s recent debut makes this particular opening even more exciting. Pieces from his hailed Spring/Summer 2015 Women’s runway collection are draped throughout the first floor, making an immediate impression on customers upon entering the store. Other highlights within the space include a landscaped terrace, gallery space, VIP pavilion and the aforementioned art installations on each level. Of these is a larger-than-life piece constructed by Miami native, Teresita Fernandez. The 36-foot piece graces the top of an entire wall, and is composed of translucent blue glass over 16,000 cabochon mirrors.

Louis Vutton’s new destination in Miami’s Design District will have its official, grand unveiling this Thursday, April 16, 2015.