Van Cleef & Arpels, the Paris-based luxury jeweller, has opened its first freestanding Canadian boutique in Toronto. A second Vancouver location is set to open in several months, while the company will also open a partner boutique at Birks in Torionto next year.
The new boutique is located in the luxury wing at Yorkdale Shopping Centre. It boasts 1,560 square feet of prime real estate, taking up a corner location in the sought-after space. The exterior features a dramatic gold-toned glass installation, while its interior features custom gold leaf, hand-painted wall coverings, velvet draperies, and crystal chandeliers. The boutique also features a private viewing salon for customers seeking privacy.
According to Alain Bernard, president and CEO of Van Cleef & Arpels Americas, the company chose the new space due to its corner location, as well as its proximity to other luxury brands in the mall.
The Vancouver flagship is currently under construction at 1069 Alberni Street. It is expected to open toward the end of the year, and represents the first time the brand has built its own location from the ground up.
Bernard notes that Canada will probably house only two freestanding Van Cleef & Arpels boutiques, preventing oversaturation of the Canadian market.
