the wonder room welcomes arab and international luxury shoppers in london
An ultimate high end shopping destination offers wondrous items in a magnificent setting
Selfridges, London’s landmark department store treasured by so many Arab shoppers, has just added another attraction to its Oxford Street store. Officially launched yesterday by 25 Alices inspired by the enchanting Alice in Wonderland classic, The Wonder Room is set to become the ultimate jewellery, watches and luxury gift destination for Arab and international shoppers from all over the world.
If you are a regular shopping traveler who thinks you have seen it all, think again! The Wonder Room offers its niche visitors an unforgettable shopping experience, not only with its mix of unique products, but also with the imaginative neo-classical setting that highlights the scale, magnificence and character of the original Selfridges hall.
The Wonder Room features world class luxury brands in an “arcade” of boutiques running around the perimeter of the room. Brands displaying their selections of exclusive wonders include Chanel fine jewellery and watches, and for the first time at Selfridges, Hermes and Tiffany & Co.
Notably, Zaha Hadid, the international architect from Arab origins known for her influential, award winning designs, presents a personal selection of her most treasured design wonders in the center of The Wonder Room. The Wonderwall takes Hadid’s seminal London painting Malevich’s Tektonik as inspiration for the exploded form that leaves its imprint across the span of eight cabinets – placing her chosen objects of desire in a landscape of her open design.
Alongside, with all the buzz of the bazaar, a concept store that takes inspiration from the tradition of the Wunderkammer or Cabinet of Curiosities with constantly updated stock representing the most exciting products of the moment. There will be the latest technology must-haves, cult books and CDs, exclusive candles and gifts. And on an impressive 18 metre wall will be the most authoritative selection of sunglasses around.
Partnering with Selfridges for the restoration of the exterior section of the landmark building that houses The Wonder Room are the well known Eric Parry Architects. Not only will the windows on Orchard Street be opened to the street allowing views and daylight into the store, new awnings and beautifully crated metalwork will restore grace and elegance to the windows and entrance.
Commenting on The Wonder Room, Chief Executive Paul Kelly says: “This spectacular development will position us on the world retail stage as the top luxury destination for UK and international customers.
“We are keen on keeping up with the increasing demands for luxury items on the part of our Arab customers. The Wonder Room will certainly provide a fulfilling experience with a selection of exclusive pieces that we are sure will appeal to the unique Arab taste.”
The Wonder Room is the biggest in-store project Selfridges has ever undertaken, with 19,000 sq. ft of retail space that cost £10 million.
