January 30, 2020: Since 1854, Louis Vuitton has brought unique designs to the world, combining innovation with style, always aiming for the finest quality. The upcoming opening of Louis Vuitton Maison Osaka Midosuji on February 1 is the imaginative result of a close collaboration between architects Jun Aoki and Peter Marino, who both share a long-standing relationship with the French House.
The new four-floor store reflects Osaka’s heritage as Japan’s most important port and highlight’s the city’s growing role as an international travel hub. In cooperation with celebrated chef Yosuke Suga, Le Café V, the very first Louis Vuitton café, sits atop Louis Vuitton Maison Osaka Midosuji, guarding the secret entrance to Sugalabo V, Suga’s exclusive restaurant, also housed within the Maison.
Architect Jun Aoki is known for his work on a number of landmark Louis Vuitton stores in Japan and around the world, including New York’s Fifth Avenue Maison.
The design of the façade allows for the optimal use of natural light. In collaboration with artist Kenta Cobayashi, who was a photographer on the House’s Fall-Winter 2019 Men’s advertising campaign, liquid crystal distortions were modelled into a bespoke sculpture that ribbons across the store’s windows. These windows blur the lines between digital fantasy and reality.
Inside, architect Peter Marino has followed similar inspirations, connecting the store’s four floors to both the maritime feel of the building and to its connection with Japanese traditional culture. The wooden floors give the impression of decks, with wood-clad pillars and metal ceilings reminiscent of the spirit of a grand yacht embarking on an exciting adventure.
Throughout the Maison, LV's Objets Nomades, a collection of travel and home-related objects bring their colourful creativity. On permanent offer, they are placed to emphasize or contrast with the architecture, or hanging down from the generous heights of the store’s ceiling. Historical Louis Vuitton archival objects and unparalleled artisanal savoir-faire provides clients with an entirely unique private shopping experience surrounded by works of art. A unique work by Gregor Hildebrandt, ‘Osaka Schwimmbad (Anne)’, composed of cut vinyl records, wood, canvas, acrylic, reflects Osaka’s relationship with its cherished bay.
From the very foundations of the House, the connection between Louis Vuitton and Japan is driven by a common fascination – two worlds capable of combining absolute respect for tradition with a strong desire for modernity.
