Acne Studios Unveils Parisian Powerhouse Blending History Art and Design
Acne Studios, the renowned Swedish brand celebrated for its avant-garde creations, has significantly expanded its global footprint with the acquisition of a major new showcase in Paris. This strategic relocation marks a pivotal moment for the label, following the establishment of its dedicated design headquarters in Stockholm in 2019. The new Parisian home is a magnificent turn-of-the-century townhouse, formerly a pharmaceutical laboratory, now poised to become a central hub for the brand’s creative endeavors.
Tucked away at the end of a charming courtyard at 48 rue des Petites-Écuries in the 10th arrondissement, this expansive space now unifies various departments of the label. Notably, it houses sections of the women's and accessories design studios, all within an environment that masterfully blends the rich echoes of the past with a curated selection of contemporary artworks and furnishings. This innovative design project was meticulously conceived by Jonny Johansson, co-founder and artistic director of Acne Studios, in close collaboration with the long-standing Swedish architecture and design firm Halleroed.
The vision for the space was to preserve the inherent "raw grandeur" of the original laboratory and mansion, which was built in 1926 by the Prevet family, original owners of the famed Gomenol. Until the 1980s, the premises were a renowned pharmaceutical laboratory, celebrated for its production of tinctures and plant-based oils, particularly the essential niaouli oil, Goménol. The design team has meticulously enriched these historic foundations with a carefully chosen array of contemporary art pieces and bespoke furniture, many sourced from Jonny Johansson's intimate circle of collaborators.
The ground floor, once the bustling laboratory, has been transformed into a spacious showroom, boasting original architectural elements such as raw concrete columns, an impressive vaulted glass ceiling, and pristine white-painted walls. This area also includes a dedicated fitting room for VIP customers, seamlessly integrating modern luxury with historical character. Jonny Johansson articulated the guiding principle behind this transformation, stating, "Our main objective was to respect the history of the place while infusing it with a fresh, modern energy. The building itself has an incredible architectural presence. It's steeped in history, and you can feel that when you walk through its rooms. We didn't want to erase this effect."
Johansson further elaborated on this ethos, emphasizing the desire to foster a dialogue between the building's storied past and its vibrant present, all while being guided by its original structure. He stressed the importance of preserving these historical traces, not merely out of reverence, but because they profoundly shape the atmosphere and energy of the space, providing a unique foundation for the innovative creative work undertaken by Acne Studios.
Throughout the building, this harmonious blend is evident. The entrance, which serves as the reception area, showcases meticulously restored gilded moldings, intricate friezes, elegant woodwork, and original parquet flooring. Similarly, the canteen, located on the mezzanine floor, retains its authentic tiled floor. This communal space is furnished with large, light-wood tables, designed to accommodate both dining and informal meetings or work sessions. It adjoins a modern kitchen and opens onto a serene, sunken outdoor garden, offering a tranquil escape. The dedicated offices and design studio are thoughtfully situated on the first floor.
The entire building, designed to accommodate approximately 80 employees, is adorned with bespoke designer furniture and contemporary artworks. British designer Max Lamb, a long-term collaborator of Acne Studios, contributed unique garden seating and the comfortable showroom sofas. Lighting artist Benoît Lalloz created a bespoke light installation that enhances the ambiance, while the courtyard features striking art pieces, including Daniel Silver's marble sculpture and candelabras by Sylvie Macmillan, further cementing the space as a convergence of history, art, and cutting-edge design.
