BOSTON, MA – Bvlgari, a contemporary Roman high jeweler announces the opening of its first boutique in Boston on Newbury Street. Following the renovations of the brand’s historic Roman flagship and New York 5th Avenue flagship an architectural concept by Peter Marino is being revealed in key locations across the globe.
Mediterranean and Roman elements imbue the new 2,864 square foot Boston boutique, evoking the spirit of the Eternal City. The concept features the use of marble and stone found in ancient Roman buildings through a classic yet modern design. Not only does this complement the history and charm of the neighborhood but it also blends tradition with innovation, two characteristics emblematic of both Marino and the brand’s style. Black Grand Antique marble and the White Travertino Navona frame the original storefront portal and two bay windows, which were preserved and restored as a tribute to Boston’s historical architecture.
Bois Jourdan marble on the entrance and star-patterned White Travertino Navona welcomes visitors and encompasses a key design element, the Condotti eight point star, in red porphyry. The signature eight-point star dates back to the first Bulgari shop in Rome opened by Sotirio Bulgari in 1884. The star is a unifying symbol found in all Bulgari boutiques, honoring Rome as the brand’s home.
On the inside, the flooring features Italian walnut square-patterned parquet with a degrade effect, which evokes an atmosphere flooded by natural sunlight. In the stores center, two oval-shaped counters, inspired by the renowned Italian architect Carlo Scarpa, invite customers to explore the iconic collections, while a Murano crystal chandelier by Italian artisan Vistosi illuminates the boutique. A balance between ancient and new, tradition and innovation, is also expressed through the décor and furniture. The new space houses furniture carefully selected by Peter Marino conceived by Italian designers of the 50’s and 60’s who have a relationship to the Bulgari heritage, such as sales tables by Franco Albini and the marble counters inspired by Carlo Scarpa
Iconic images of celebrities decorate the walls as a tribute to the brand’s long-standing relationship with Hollywood. Further enriching the shopping experience is the VIP area located on the mezzanine, reachable by an open staircase, recalling the ambiance of an Italian theatre. The room is surrounded by a Pantheon Mesh grid, a bronze-lattice work screen inspired by the Roman Pantheon’s floor with the additional motif of the iconic Bvlgari eight-pointed star.
“This milestone marks a special moment for Bvlgari, as it brings our Maison’s Roman roots and spirit of innovation to Boston, a very important city for the brand,” said Daniel Paltridge, President of North America. “We are pleased to open our boutique on Newbury Street in a manner that represents the contemporary Bulgari brand while simultaneously paying tribute to our rich, Roman heritage.”
Part of the LVMH Group, Bvlgari was founded in Rome in 1884 as a jewellery shop. Quickly establishing a reputation for Italian excellence, Bulgari enjoys renown for exquisite craftsmanship and magnificent jewellery creations. The Company’s international success has evolved into a global and diversified luxury purveyor of products and services, ranging from fine jewels and watches to accessories and perfumes, and featuring an unrivalled network of boutiques and hotels in the world’s most exclusive shopping areas.