After major renovations, the emblematic La Samaritaine store is back. This elegant place now displays a resolutely modern look, at the height of what it offers inside.
The brilliant renovation by Japanese architecture studio SANAA includes an undulating glass façade that surrounds part of the historic buildings. Blending past and present, restored Art Deco and Art Nouveau details shine alongside contemporary touches.
History of the Samaritan
La Samaritaine was founded in 1870 by the merchant Ernest Cognacq and his wife Marie-Louise Jaÿ (a former saleswoman at Le Bon Marché). Its original buildings, which occupy a privileged position on the banks of the Seine, were designed by architects Frantz Jourdain and Henri Sauvage. Bold lettering highlights its name, which comes from an ancient water pump on the nearby Pont Neuf, depicting a bas-relief of a Samaritan woman pouring water for Christ. Cognacq used to sell fabrics from a stall here, although the pump has long since disappeared. Offering quality products at affordable prices, the shop was a great success thanks to innovations such as clearly marked prices and clothes that customers could try on before buying. Its slogan "You can find everything at the Samaritaine" won over the hearts of the population.
When the old-fashioned shop closed in 2005, dismayed locals feared the loss of this famous 19th-century shopping destination. Fortunately, LVMH has restored La Samaritaine to its former glory, creating a glamorous multi-brand shop.
A design that combines the old and the new
This eclectic complex, made up of Art Nouveau, Art Deco and contemporary buildings, is linked by two airy, glazed courtyards. The site, a listed historic monument, has undergone a dazzling renovation. The rectangular glass roof with its Eiffel-style iron framework, designed by Frantz Jourdain in 1907, has been given pride of place. It crowns a sublime atrium, criss-crossed by staircases and topped by a 115-metre-long gilded peacock.
Many craftsmen worked on this project, from sculptors and painters to gilders and metalworkers. They fashioned 16,000 gold leaves to restore the oak banister of the spectacular central staircase.
Luxury shopping
La Samaritaine's central location in the first arrondissement is perfect for shopping enthusiasts, who can enjoy one of the finest department stores in Paris. There are around 650 brands on seven floors, including luxury brands and exclusive designers: men's and women's ready-to-wear collections, shoes, watches, jewellery and accessories.
Tempting catering options
Appealing to Parisians and international visitors alike, the new Samaritaine is ideal for a bite to eat after exploring nearby attractions such as the Louvre. Foodies will love its 12 tempting restaurants. The Voyage bar-restaurant, located under the Art Nouveau glass roof on the fifth floor, is the flagship of the establishment. Michelin-starred chefs prepare all-day lunch and dinner menus inspired by famous travellers, accompanied by cocktails.
Culture
Pop-ups, collaborations, exhibitions and exciting events bring the shop to life. Cultural tours also bring the history of La Samaritaine to life. To discover the family behind the brand and the Parisian style of the 18th century, visit the Musée Cognacq-Jay at the Hôtel Donon in the Marais (8 rue Elzévir, 75003), which showcases the couple's personal collection of art, furniture and accessories.
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