Located in the centre of town, in the rue Gambetta, this historic Saint Jean-de Luz boutique has been entirely rethought by Jean Nouvel Design. The proprietors called on the Paris studio to inject a dose of modernity while preserving the DNA of the place. The idea was to enhance the building by paring it back to its original façade, typical of Basque constructions, while creating an ultra-contemporary universe inside.

Long and narrow, the space is openly exposed to visitors directly at the door thanks to a periscope effect that greatly increases the perceived depth of the place and brings the bustle of the town into the very back of the shop.

On both levels, the client is enveloped by the warmth of wood that plays on the contrast in finishes between matte and glossy. The floor in matte teak is worked like the bridge of a boat and runs the entire length of the shop. The walls are dressed in large varnished teak panels with mirror-effect surfaces, and, on the ceiling, fine strips of wood reiterate the lines of the floor. The whole space is punctuated by recesses for showing the clothes that act like theatre sketches.

In this new refurbishment everything is about perspective. The view changes depending on where you’re standing. Nothing is predictable, everything is a surprise.