Bottega Veneta has just announced a significant expansion in Milan with the opening of its first store designed by Creative director Matthieu Blazy.
The store’s prime location in the heart of Milan’s historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a stone’s throw from iconic landmarks such as the Duomo and Teatro alla Scala, makes it a magnet for fashion enthusiasts worldwide. This addition joins Bottega Veneta’s existing Milan boutiques on Via Montenapoleone and Via Sant’Andrea, further strengthening its presence in Italy’s fashion capital.
Spanning approximately 2,600 square feet (242 m2) over two levels, the boutique is a physical embodiment of Blazy‘s innovative vision. First unveiled in Paris and later in Aspen, the design approach combines elements of Italian modernist architecture with a futuristic aesthetic. “I wanted to express the idea of a domestic interior referring to Italian modernist architecture that contrasts with the aesthetic of a spaceship,” said Blazy, emphasizing the unique spatial experience the store offers.
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The new retail space is a carefully curated experience that showcases Bottega Veneta’s commitment to luxury and craftsmanship. The boutique houses an exquisite collection of leather goods, footwear and women’s ready-to-wear that represents the pinnacle of style and elegance.
Leo Rongone, CEO of Bottega Veneta, expressed his excitement for this landmark opening. “Galleria Vittorio Emanuele is a historical Milanese landmark that is renowned as a discerning luxury destination, attracting visitors from all over the world,” he said.
Highlighting the brand’s commitment to Italian craftsmanship, Rongone said, “We look forward to welcoming new and established clients in an intimate and elevated environment, where every design detail expresses our profound relationship with Italian materials and craft.” This commitment is evident in the store’s design, which features three main elements derived from the brand’s Paris flagship: glass, Italian walnut and green Verde Saint Denis marble.
The store’s interior is a marvel of geometric precision, with industrial square glass blocks integrated into the walls and ceiling, framed by walnut panels. The theme continues on the floors, where walnut panels accentuate the Verde Saint Denis marble. The centerpiece is a grand winding walnut staircase that connects the two floors and symbolizes strength and warmth.
Leather upholstered seats in forest green and wool carpets in the same color add a touch of elegance, while walnut fixtures evoke Bottega Veneta’s iconic Intrecciato woven leather technique. The store’s modular shelving, brass hooks and handles mirror the design of Blazy’s famous Drop earrings, adding a unique flair to the interior.
To celebrate the opening, Bottega Veneta is pre-launching three key styles from its Summer collection exclusively at the Galleria store, including the Kalimero Cha Cha and Città bags in tartan intrecciato and the sculptural Cha Cha shoe. In addition, the store will offer a limited edition of five unique Kalimero Città bags in python and 15 Sardine bags with ceramic handles, each numbered with a gold plate inside.
A special feature of the Milan store is the unique glass door handle, created by Venice-based Japanese glass artist Ritsue Mishima.
As of September 30th, Bottega Veneta has 285 company-owned stores worldwide.
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