Polene, a luxury brand hailing from Spain, has inaugurated its first-ever flagship store in China. The new establishment is situated in Taikoo Li Sanlitun, located in Beijing.
Visitors to the store are initially greeted by a large magnolia installation at the entrance, serving as an attraction for anyone entering the location. The store’s interior design showcases a harmony of modern aesthetics with elements of traditional Chinese craftsmanship.
The store displays a blend of walnut wood, leather, and Xuan paper, which is a traditional Chinese paper made from Blue Sandalwood tree fibres and rice straw. This incorporation of local elements is a nod to the Chinese culture and heritage.
Polene has also demonstrated its commitment to sustainability through its innovative use of materials. The brand has upcycled 12 tonnes of leather scraps, transforming them into compressed leather bricks that are extensively used in the store’s interior. This usage of recycled leather offers a distinctive, mineral-like texture, while simultaneously promoting sustainable practices.
The flagship store also houses a unique, three-storey experiential area named “Craft at Work – A Theatre of Artisanship”.
The journey begins with a representation of a Paris workshop, complete with patacabras, small hammers used for leather crafting. The journey continues with a scene that pays homage to Ubrique, the Spanish town known for Polene’s leather production. The final stage of this experiential journey is a unique setting that transforms a leather atelier into a theatrical environment. Here, miniature bags traverse overhead conveyors, providing a fascinating spectacle alongside larger sculptural pieces.
In tandem with the flagship store’s launch, Polene has announced the appointment of actress and singer Zhu Zhu as its new brand ambassador. The brand praises Zhu Zhu for her confidence and effortless poise, which beautifully encapsulate Polene’s refined, minimalist aesthetic.
What is unique about the design of Polene’s flagship store in Beijing?
Polene’s flagship store incorporates traditional Chinese elements such as walnut wood and Xuan paper into its contemporary design, alongside recycled leather bricks made from upcycled leather offcuts.
What is the “Craft at Work – A Theatre of Artisanship” at Polene’s flagship store?
This is a three-storey experiential area that guides visitors through a journey of craftsmanship, from a depiction of a Paris workshop to a tableau that transforms a leather atelier into a theatrical setting.
Who is the new brand ambassador for Polene?
The new brand ambassador for Polene is actress and singer Zhu Zhu, chosen for her confidence and poise that embody Polene’s refined, minimalist aesthetic.
