The world’s second Bottega Veneta maison debuted on Rodeo Drive late last week. A champagne cocktail was hosted for special guests to celebrate in Beverly Hills, followed by a private dinner at Sunset Tower Hotel in West Hollywood.
A short walk from the original 1971 store on Melrose, the new maison is Bottega’s latest effort to shake loose from the homogeneity of its stores which look the same from Beijing to Berlin and, instead, to reflect local tastes and architecture. Designed by creative director Tomas Maier, the two-story structure incorporates Southern California’s Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Colonial architecture. The interior features arched windows, a spiral staircase and minimalistic space emphasizing natural light and airy spaciousness. On the sidewalk, a lone palm tree casts a shadow over the white storefront, beckoning visitors to come experience the maison’s new concept of openness balanced perfectly with a sense of intimacy.
Known for its Intrecciato handbags made of finely woven leather strips, as well as its logo-free understated classiness, the luxury brand will showcase men’s and women’s ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes, jewelry, eyewear, luggage, home accessories and fragrance. For the opening, Bottega revived a bag first created in 1971, now offered as the “Beverly 71/16” in several colors of crocodile. It is sold exclusively at the Beverly Hills maison for $33,000, a luxury piece specially for the crème de la crème among locals.
A third maison is planned to open in New York City in 2017. Click here to find a location near you.
