Van Cleef and Arpels to Expand

Van Cleef and Arpels has announced plans to expand their flagship boutique in New York City. Famous designer Patrick Jouin gives the vision of a geometric art-deco theme for the renovations. He wants it to appear to pay homage to New York City’s Chrysler building and the Empire State Building.

A grand staircase will lead guests from the main entrance on Fifth Avenue to a newly renovated and expanded mezzanine level. Here there will be a larger library of archives and new second floor selling space. There will also be space for special events such as lectures and private exhibitions.

Recently appointed CEO for the Americas Alain Bernard explains, “We don’t want to expand at the cost of our identity,” he says. “We want to grow selectively. We are taking over a maison in a fantastic position and great health,” he adds “The mission is to keep on with the beautiful story we have. In the U.S., I see a lot of opportunities. We already have a lot of projects in the pipeline”.

The history of the exclusive boutique dates back to their participation in the 1939 World’s Fair. After that, the first Van Cleef and Arpel’s boutique opened in the grand location of the intersection of New York’s Fifth Avenue and 57th Street.

Since then, the maison has been the source of some very famous gifts. It was here that Prince Rainier bought Grace Kelly’s engagement set. Gift ideas came from the salons and design books of Van Cleef and Arpels for many of Jackie Kennedy’s gifts from both John Kennedy and Aristotle Onassis.