Whilst Qatar may be known as one of the smaller nations in the Gulf, what it lacks in size is made up in both adventure and luxury. With the 2022 World Cup currently on path to welcoming tourists from around the world in November and the opening of Place Vendôme, it’s a true testament to the luxurious offerings the country has in store.
Exuding grandeur with its palatial setting, exquisite architecture and interiors, Place Vendôme couldn’t have been a more perfect setting for Hermès’ new boutique – now becoming the only Hermès store in Qatar. Situated between desert and sea, the spacious store not only comes with expressions from Hermès’ architectural vocabulary but, pays tribute to the region’s history and heritage: think through the topography and historical landmarks.
The spacious new store of over 600 square metres is an exploration of the 16 métiers of the house. Upon entering double glass doors, you’re immediately immersed into the Hermès universe – one filled with an abundance of natural light, airiness, flourishing architecture and decorative details that echo the Maison’s respective codes.
Entering the new address, designed by the Parisian architecture agency RDAI, the immense size of the boutique is apparent. The world of women’s silk and fashion jewellery is on full display and it serves as an axis to the rest of the store. To the right, there’s a succession of rooms that extend through the leather goods métier, past the collections for the home, to arrive in the women’s universe. Before discovering the latest women’s ready-to-wear collections, leather goods and an exquisite display of Hermès icons, don’t miss the small alcove for the perfume and beauty métiers.
Looking straight past the shelves of silks and equestrian offerings, there’s a dedicated section where you can discover the men’s universe housing ready-to-wear and accessories, as well as on the left, two salons are dedicated to the watch and jewellery métiers. What truly makes this boutique unique is the attention to detail, whether through the geometric forms of the structure and individuality of each space or the inviting furniture which encourages guests to feel at home. A prime example of truly catering to its clients is that each universe has an attached VIP salon for bespoke service.
With an overall sense of binding the cultural essence of Doha with the Parisian house’s creativity and fine craftsmanship, some of the key takeaways from Hermès’ new boutique is that it’s the Maison’s largest one-story store in the world. Because it is, the boutique can accommodate a private garden, an oasis in the city populated by lush green, local flora, with views of the sea.
Inside, ‘views’ translate to the walls of the boutique where a selection of unique artwork and pieces contribute to the store’s character. These pieces are from Emile Hermès Collection and Wissam Al Mana’s private collections. The store also offers a selection of exclusive objects, such as a made-to-measure foosball table and a unique soccer ball, cast in Rouge H and Craie Swift leathers.
The new Hermès Doha store is a celebrating of its rich history and artistic vision.
