International luxury Maison, Montblanc, launched this week its first neo concept boutique in Sandton City Mall this week. The 119 m² boutique was designed by French designer and interiors architect, Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance. The design allows for dedicated areas within the space for the three core categories in Montblanc’s portfolio: writing instruments, watches and jewellery, and leather goods.
The selection of refined materials inside the boutique not only express the Maison’s European codes of elegance and spirit of craftsmanship, but also serve to identify each category by the distinct materials with which they are usually associated. Watchmaking is brought to life through the use of bronze-sheen brass, leather and wood; black leather and walnut wood reflect the Maison’s leather goods expertise; while lacquers and fine metals evoke writing instruments and jewellery.
The Writing Instrument Experience
At the rear of the boutique, the Manufacture Bar will enable customers to engage with product experts, and those who want to enjoy the pleasure of writing will have the opportunity to test the diverse range of writing instruments, nibs and inks in the Montblanc collection. The dedicated area also includes a digital corner showcasing the latest Montblanc ScreenWriter editions that enable writing in the digital realm.
The Leather Atelier
In addition to providing the perfect showcase for Montblanc’s leather collections, the Leather Atelier encapsulates all the distinctive elements of fine Italian leather with a “touch and feel” experience that includes a unique leather library containing more than 50 different skins inside bound books. Collections on display include the recently launched Montblanc Urban Spirit Collection, with elegant, functional pieces for the travelling urbanite.
The Lounge Collectors
An intimate space where curves and straight lines play off each other, collectors can view limited editions of both watches and writing instruments, including the recently launched William Shakespeare Writers Edition, or experience Montblanc customization services, from embossing leather goods to bespoke Creation Privée personalisation, in the most comfortable and private setting.
Commenting on the launch of the Sandton City Mall boutique, Eric Vergnes said: “We are delighted to open the region’s first neo concept boutique in Sandton, an important shopping district, and the historical location of Montblanc’s first boutique in South Africa. The sophisticated and contemporary boutique invites existing connoisseurs and new generations of customers to discover the Maison’s rich heritage and enjoy the wide selection of products showcased.”