Louis Vuitton Goes Big on Home & Feng Shui in Shanghai!
Remember when Louis Vuitton was all about the luxury trunks and haute couture? Well, the French giants are now stepping into the world‑class furniture and homewares scene, opening their very first dedicated showroom in Shanghai.
Why This Matters
- The boutique is tucked under a century‑old mansion just behind Nanjing Road – think chic, not your typical high‑street mall.
- It’s by appointment only – so you probably have to call an agent before you can peek.
- Louis Vuitton plans a three‑month pop‑up test run. If it hits the mark, it’ll lock down a permanent spot.
The Hot Pieces (Yes, No Prices Listed)
During a media preview they kept price tags under wraps, but inside you’ll find a bright‑colored cocoon chair (the Campana brothers’ masterpiece) costing over ¥700,000 (about S$96,000). A little lamp resembling a glass milk bottle, wrapped in leather straps, is priced at ¥40,500 – a real statement piece for the living room.
Frank Chou: The Local Design Legend
A separate wing showcases Frank Chou’s designs – the first mainland Chinese designer the brand has collaborated with for its Objet Nomades collection. The showroom is a two‑fold homage: one side dazzles with the Louvre of furniture, the other exudes the youthful vibe of a home‑design home run.
Why This Is a Power Move
Luxury brands are tightening their belts after the impact of Covid-19 and a shaky property market in China. So, the LVMH group is hunting fresh growth avenues. Adding homewares feels like a wise strategy – those wealthy Chinese shoppers are ready to splurge on upgrades that look as good in Instagram stories as they do in their living rooms.
Case in Point: Chengdu’s Gourmet Lifestyle
Last month, Louis Vuitton opened a store in Chengdu that featured an exhibition space and a restaurant; looks like they’re on a mission to bring the iconoclastic feel of luxury into everyday life.
Experts Predict a Boom
GlobalData’s analyst, Bobby Verghese, estimates that China’s home sector will reach a mountain‑high $782 billion by 2026. He believes homewares are a solid bet for the LVMH group, especially as Gen Y and Gen Z consumers embrace public displays of lifestyle over privacy.
As Verghese puts it, “LMVH is positioning itself as a contemporary luxury brand that resonates with dynamic Chinese Millennials and Gen Z customers.” And while Gen Y and Z may not shy away from flaunting their living spaces on social media, the LVMH threat is just getting louder.
