RH Paris: A Luxurious Gallery on the Champs-Élysées
The renowned American luxury furniture brand RH has made a spectacular entrance to Paris, setting up its grand gallery on the iconic Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Following a stunning transformation of a 17th-century estate in the Cotswolds for its European debut, RH is now elevating its offerings even further in this highly anticipated Parisian location.
A Historic Venue
Occupying a vintage building commissioned in 1983 by aviation engineer Marcel Dassault, the new RH Paris gallery spans 3,900 square meters of indoor and outdoor space. Once home to Abercrombie & Fitch, the gallery beautifully marries RH’s signature understated elegance with a deep respect for French architectural heritage. Visitors are welcomed through the original gilded, wrought-iron gate, setting the tone for an intimate, home-like atmosphere typical of Parisian residences.
As guests proceed down a 150-foot limestone path, flanked by lush hedges, they are led to a hidden garden and the RH Interior Design Studio—a newly constructed glass pavilion designed by Foster + Partners. This exquisite interior features luxurious white onyx and bespoke lighting crafted by Los Angeles designer Alison Berger, who took inspiration from the pavilion’s flowing lines.
A Function and Artistic Experience
Upon entering, the gallery presents monumental bronze and brass doors that pay homage to the design ethos of RH. Originally discovered by Dassault’s son during his travels, these doors serve as a focal point of the building’s design. Notably, the gallery features a presentation case showcasing one of the first modern printings of Vitruvius’ De Architectura, dated around 1521, highlighting RH’s commitment to principles of balance and symmetry in design.
The left wing houses the Architecture and Design Bibliothèque, featuring rare texts from influential figures over the past two millennia, including Da Vinci and Haussmann.
A Continuous Flow of Design
The ground, lower ground, and first floors of the gallery continue to impress with a display of RH’s unique furnishings, antiques, and art. Departing from its typical intimate layouts, RH chose an open-plan approach that fosters a harmonious flow around the central atrium, adorned with original ornate balustrades and a staircase featuring backlit frosted glass steps.
Mirrored columns and bronze accents enhance the luxurious ambiance, while a hand-gilded gold leaf ceiling by Ateliers Gohard adds a touch of opulence.
Artistic Collaborations
In an innovative first for the brand, each gallery floor is dedicated to a different artist, showcasing custom works that resonate with RH’s elegant style. The first floor features abstract nudes by German painter Thomas Junghans, complemented by a late 19th-century bronze sculpture attributed to Louis-Félix Chabaud and a replica of the Louvre’s Winged Victory of Samothrace in the garden.
Hospitality with a Flair
Moving to the second floor, guests are introduced to Le Jardin RH, another creation of Foster + Partners. This atmospheric restaurant innovatively combines open space with striking curved glass panels—a nod to the nearby Grand Palais. Fully adorned in radiant white onyx, the venue features a meticulously crafted bar and elegant bathrooms.
On the fourth floor, the dining experience continues with Le Petit RH, offering half-moon banquettes and a spectacular chandelier made of 7,200 individual handblown glass pieces. The adjacent World of RH Bar & Lounge invites attendees to explore RH’s global presence through architectural sketches, photographs, and video installations—perfect for enjoying a cocktail crafted by renowned bartender Colin Field.
Breathtaking Views Await
Crowning the establishment, Le Petit RH Rooftop offers a stunning panorama of Paris featuring landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Nôtre-Dame. A unique public pop-up lift—crafted entirely in glass and brass—gracefully ascends and descends, allowing guests to appreciate the breathtaking views without disturbing the serene gallery environment.
RH Paris is undoubtedly a luxurious addition to the Champs-Élysées, blending home design, art, and exquisite dining for visitors and Parisians alike.
Experience this unparalleled gallery at 23 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008.
For more insights into innovative interior design trends, check out our blog at ChatbiHouse. Also, explore our discussions on the impact of art in home décor here.
