Destination: Printemps NYC
TFM Explores a New Retail Concept in New York City
French luxury retailer Printemps opened a New York City outpost at One Wall Street and during my recent trip, I checked out the immersive and très chic destination for shopping, fine cuisine, and design. Stopping in a day ahead of the grand opening, it was buzzing in the magical way only something in New York City can. To my right, the store’s architect Laura Gonzalez was being filmed. From behind the bar at Le Salon Vert, award-winning Chef Gregory Gourdet handed me a menu. Stylists were preparing for the launch of Mon Vintage by Marie Blanchet. Sales associate Eliza and I bonded over Brooklyn and charm necklaces. As intended, it felt like I was visiting the (insanely exquisite) home of an (insanely stylish) friend who happily let me wander around, peek at their shoe collection, and open the medicine cabinet.
While taking in the fantastical design, pops of color, and artful merchandising, all of which is set inside a historic Art Deco building and aims to evoke a French apartment, it is clear the concept is “not a department store.” Across multiple floors you discover beautiful restaurants and bars, an intimate salon, a stunning beauty corridor, a “Sneaker Room” nestled within the “Playroom” and more. All areas boast a distinct design with eye-catching details that are a feast for the eyes (and Instagram!) and reason enough to make it a stop on your itinerary. Not to be missed is the Red Room, which reveals itself upon descending a pink marble staircase. The room, now a magnificent “forest of shoes,” was designed by muralist Hildreth Meière in 1931 and was inaccessible to the public for years.
I didn’t have time to experience the restaurants, but that is a reason to return, in addition to seeing how it evolves and maintains its buzz and energy. Learn more and enjoy gorgeous photos of Printemps NYC in Wallpaper’s article.
While in the Financial District, other spots to check out include the 9/11 Memorial, Beekman Hotel, One World Observatory, The Oculus, and Alexander Hamilton’s grave at Trinity Church. I couldn’t squeeze it into this trip but was intrigued by the exhibitions at Mercer Labs.
For more NYC recommendations, Travel + Leisure is my go-to and I always check out their coverage to learn the latest news from the destination. I also follow the magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Jacqui Gifford on Instagram to see what she is up to in the city, as well as where she is going and what she is wearing.
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