Destination store

Introducing Carl Hansen & Søn’s new flagship store in London’s Pimlico, filled with 110 years’ worth of iconic furniture designs

What’s the story? Joining Carl Hansen & Søn’s Clerkenwell store, opened in 2015, as its new UK flagship, 48A Pimlico Road expands the brand into west London, ready to cater to private customers as well as the interior designers and architects that already regularly frequent its first outpost. With its modern design ethic, the new store stands out on the street, which is known for its antiques shops selling artworks and more traditional offerings. And with pieces from the likes of designers Kaare Klint, Hans J Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, the space easily upholds the area’s reputation for fine furniture. What will I find inside? Housed in the 220-square-metre location are iconic designs from every era of the brand’s 110-year history – Frits Henningsen’s ‘Signature’ chairs sit in harmony with Ole Wanscher’s ‘OW150’ daybed and the ‘CH002’ dining table by Hans J Wegner, all overseen by a wall dedicated to the piece most synonymous with the brand, Wegner’s ‘ Wishbone’ chair. A bespoke, blackened oak kitchen, made from bookcases and cabinets by Mogens Koch, will host private events, and Louis Poulsen lights are artfully dotted throughout. Why should I visit? Furniture aside, it’s worth a trip for the sheer beauty of the space. A palette of dark greens, burgundy reds, navy blues and subtle greys gives the store an intimate air, while vertical wall tiles and flowing curtains add texture. ‘I wanted to create a new destination where visitors will feel an emotional connection, and that will reflect the brand’s celebration of natural materials,’ explains designer Despina Curtis, who transformed the store. ‘ We added subtle design details with the tile-clad columns and curved window plinths’. Not simply for shopping, this is a place for wandering, dreaming and gathering inspiration. carlhansen.com

‘I WANTED TO CREATE A NEW DESTINATION WHERE VISITORS WILL FEEL AN EMOTIONAL CONNECTION’