New York City — Luxury jewelry brand John Hardy has debuted its first U.S. flagship, situated in New York’s Soho neighborhood. The brand’s foray into retail comes amid a full brand transformation under CEO Robert Hanson. The company plans a limited number of retail boutiques in key cities globally.
The flagship, which opened on November 25, 2016, is highlighted by an experiential concept space on the boutique’s second floor, which will serve as a creative sanctuary for artisans and offer consumers immersive experiences.
The flagship weaves together scent, sound, light and art for a refined reimagining of the John Hardy Jewelry Workshop in Ubud, Bali. Designed around a central display, clients are invited to navigate the boutique like the island of Bali itself, walking around its natural edges and exploring tactile moments of inspiration. True to founder John Hardy’s creative vision as an artist and environmental sculptor, the boutique walls showcase powerful collections like a gallery, encouraging guests to interact with every dimension of inspiration. The dynamic contours and exquisite detail of handcrafted jewelry is exhibited with bold authenticity.
A lush scent designed to conjure the verdant grounds of the Ubud Workshop transports and transfixes, as store lighting and sound shift throughout the day to evoke the rising and setting of the Balinese sun. All the while, a custom playlist blends nomadic beats and natural soundscapes, invoking the essence of wanderlust.
Signature carved wood details punctuate the space with rich walnut and hammered gold inlays, summoning elements of earthy softness and water reflection. A large-scale art installation hand-carved from teakwood tree root — the sustainable byproduct of production — serves as a dynamic focal point, manifesting creativity and celebrating the uncompromising artistic ethos behind the brand.
In conceptualizing the space, architectural firm Design Republic sought to celebrate the brand’s heritage and roots in artisan craftsmanship forged by founder John Hardy in 1975. All millwork is custom designed and unique to the store. Natural and locally sourced materials reflect the brand’s commitment to community and artisanship while large jewelry display tables, made from locally sourced black walnut, recall the communal artisan’s table in the Ubud Workshop. Elements such as mirrors etched with the John Hardy chain motif and hammered brass accents, echo the objects of beauty on display.
The 1,200-square-foot flagship is located at 118 Prince St. in a three-story landmark building from the early 1900s.
Established in Bali in 1975, John Hardy is dedicated to the creation of ultimate beauty through artisan handcrafted jewelry. For more information, visit www.johnhardy.com.
SOURCE: John Hardy