CHARLES OUDIN, Place Vendôme, Paris

BOIFFILS Architectures has designed a salon for Charles Oudin that seamlessly blends heritage and modernity. Situated in the prestigious Place Vendôme, a landmark of Parisian elegance and craftsmanship, the space draws inspiration from the brand’s 18th-century origins, the grandeur of its location, and the Art Deco influences that shape its contemporary timepieces. The result is a refined environment where history and modernity engage in a continuous dialogue.

The boutique feels as though it has been carved directly from the very stone of Place Vendôme. Crushed stone walls echo the warm hues and textures of the surrounding historic architecture, creating a natural continuity between exterior and interior. This concept symbolizes the legacy of Charles Oudin—deeply rooted in Parisian craftsmanship yet constantly evolving toward the future. The design embraces soft, flowing lines rather than rigid angles, forming an enveloping and organic space that invites visitors into an intimate and luxurious experience.

Every design choice reflects Charles Oudin’s commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and personalization, mirroring the meticulous artistry of its watches. Bespoke display alcoves integrate seamlessly into the boutique’s sculpted walls, softly illuminated to highlight the intricate details of each timepiece. A warm, neutral palette of soft beiges, creams, and natural materials enhances the boutique’s timeless sophistication, reinforcing an atmosphere of understated luxury. Architectural lighting plays a key role, with indirect cove lighting accentuating the curves of the ceiling, adding depth and warmth, while carefully placed spotlights draw attention to the most exquisite details.

The floor, adorned with a bespoke carpet featuring abstract, nature-inspired patterns, subtly evokes the passage of time—its design reminiscent of rippling water or the rhythmic motion of a clock’s mechanism. Beyond the boutique’s walls, the magnificent view over Place Vendôme is intentionally framed, reinforcing a sense of connection between past and present, tradition and innovation.

Like a Charles Oudin timepiece, this boutique is more than an object of beauty—it is an experience. Designed to immerse visitors in the brand’s world, it captures the essence of French savoir-faire, where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. BOIFFILS Architectures has created a space that is at once intimate and grand, a celebration of time, craftsmanship, and the enduring elegance of Charles Oudin.

LOCATION: Place Vendôme, Paris

CLIENT: Charles Oudin

PROGRAM: Renovation of Charles Oudin store and headquarters

PROJECT TEAM: Marion Pierre, Laura Follin, Arda Beyleryan, Sung Ju Kwak, Victoire Bonniol

PROJECT AREA: 110 sq.m

COMPLETION: 2024

PHOTO CREDIT: BOIFFILS Architectures