Closed in 2005 for safety reasons, the new Samaritaine Paris Pont-Neuf opens its doors on June 23, after 750 million euros for its makeover. Overlooking the Seine stands the emblematic building in the heart of Paris, this building, one of the oldest in the capital, is a place that ushers in an authentically French experience, where the chic of avenue Montaigne meets the contemporary air of the Marais in this grandiose historic architecture and daring contemporary addition.
Dfs designed Samaritaine’s rebirth, firmly anchored in its roots, by embodying the spirit of the founding couple, Ernest Cognacq and Marie-Louise Jaÿ, but with an eye resolutely turned towards the 21st century with exclusive concepts and an uninhibited way of mixing luxury and designers that befits our time.
«More than just a shopping center, the Samaritaine is a place of discovery, surprise and experience. A place where customers can witness the avant-garde of creation and taste the cuisine of a contemporary chef, treat themselves to a piece of luxury while enjoying an espresso prepared by an expert barista, discover artisanal designer jewels and relax in the spa, or meet young artists and discuss the surrounding architecture with a historical guide,» said Éléonore de Boysson, President of Dfs Europe and the Middle East.
The iconic building set in the heart of Paris on the border of the bubbling right bank and the bourgeois left bank, is an ambitious renovation launched by Lvmh group, its new owner, as part of the Parisian neighborhood’s transformation into a green heart of the capital, partly pedestrianized, and featuring a space for art with the opening of many galleries.
The Art Nouveau and Art Deco buildings on the rue de Rivoli side are completely restored, while a new modern building by the Japanese architectural agency Sanaa has been added. Inside, there are a Cheval Blanc hotel, offices, social housing and a nursery. Far from a covered space, Samaritaine is bathed in natural light filtering through from several points: the iconic glass roof of the Art Nouveau building (now called Pont-Neuf), the original breakthrough bay windows in the Eiffel structure as well as two new skylights designed by the Sanaa agency. Inside, the spaces echo the architectural principle, both rooted in history and turned towards the future. On the Pont-Neuf side a chic and refined aesthetic, terrazzo floor, ironwork repainted in gray with Art Deco and Art Nouveau details that welcome the biggest names in luxury. On the Rivoli side: industrial-style modernity with a more urban fee.
Samaritaine Paris Pont-Neuf
9, Rue de la Monnaie
Paris 1er, 75001 France
Photo: The Samaritaine Paris Pont-Neuf. Courtesy imag.
