The fashion house Acne Studios recently unveiled its revamped Paris headquarters, situated in a historic laboratory building dating back to the 1930s on Rue des Petites Écuries. This architectural endeavor, guided by Acne Studios' creative director Jonny Johansson and the Swedish design firm Halleroed, masterfully intertwines the site's rich heritage with contemporary design principles. Their vision centered on revering the existing structure's inherent beauty while introducing subtle, modern interventions.
Johansson emphasized their approach: \"Our primary goal was to honor the location's history while infusing a fresh, modern spirit. The building possesses an extraordinary architectural presence, brimming with narratives that resonate as you traverse its spaces. We aimed not to erase this essence but to foster a dialogue between bygone eras and the present, allowing the original framework to inform our choices.\" The new headquarters, arranged around a central courtyard, meticulously preserves original elements such as gilded moldings and classic parquet floors. These historic details are thoughtfully juxtaposed with new additions, notably a prominent pink vinyl sofa crafted by Max Lamb, which acts as a central artistic statement. Additionally, a raw concrete showroom, featuring a captivating vaulted glass-tiled ceiling, further exemplifies the blend of textures and periods. The contemporary components are designed to appear 'inserted rather than fully integrated,' forging a striking contrast with the historical backdrop. The outcome is a distinct environment that mirrors the brand's innovative ethos while paying homage to its esteemed historical setting.
The successful revitalization of the Acne Studios headquarters exemplifies how historical preservation can harmoniously coexist with modern innovation, fostering environments that inspire creativity and productivity. This project underscores the importance of respecting foundational elements while boldly embracing new artistic expressions, ultimately creating spaces that are not only functional but also deeply evocative and forward-thinking.