Already lined with luxury retailers including Hermes, Loewe, Harry Winston, Stefano Ricci, Brioni, and Pucci, Los Robles Avenue in River Oaks District is now raising the bar with two iconic French jewelry houses. Cartier has unveiled a gleaming 8,000-square-foot regional flagship boutique, while Van Cleef & Arpels has expanded into a stunning 5,000-square-foot space dazzling with one-of-a-kind diamonds and design.
Cartier’s reimagined boutique pairs Parisian design with Houston’s iconic landmarks. Photo by Here and Now Agency
Cartier combines Parisian elegance with local luxe
The 8,000-square-foot boutique, reimagined by acclaimed Paris-based firm Bidard & Raissi Architect, was heavily inspired by Houston’s landmarks, natural beauty, and architecture.
Shoppers will find two private VIP salons and a new bridal suite inspired by Texas bluebonnets.
Lounge areas showcase Houston’s connection to space exploration, while the main nature-inspired showroom features flowing curves reminiscent of Buffalo Bayou. In a nod to the Houston Astros, vaulted ceilings and sculpted wooden columns are subtle reminders of the Astrodome’s iconic roof and the smooth lines of a baseball bat.
“Cartier is one of the world’s most recognized, prestigious, and iconic jewelers,” said Patrick Fertitta, director of Fertitta Entertainment, in a statement. “Cartier’s expanded presentation reinforces River Oaks District’s mission to bring the very best in class experiences to our customers. Houstonians can now enjoy Cartier’s legendary craftsmanship in an expansive environment that is both refined and welcoming.”
Van Cleef & Arpels blooms in Houston with diamonds, salons, and charm.Rendering courtesy of Van Cleef & Arpels
Van Cleef & Arpels unveils a garden of glamour
Van Cleef just unveiled their newest flagship, where high jewelry meets high drama, before even stepping inside. Shoppers are welcomed by striking three-dimensional diamonds at the entrance. Once inside, guests are greeted by the Maison’s timeless muse, nature. A canopy of 12-carat white gold leaves glistens from the ceiling, complemented by hand-painted floral wallpaper.
While the boutique is one floor, it encompasses five distinct salons. Guests can enjoy a champagne bar, private showrooms, and intimate sales alcoves for more personalized and tailored shopping experiences.
“Van Cleef & Arpels is delighted to reimagine its home in the vibrant city of Houston,” said Helen King, president & CEO of Van Cleef & Arpels, Americas. “We are truly dedicated to enchanting both our loyal clients and welcoming new friends into the Maison. This opportunity to reintroduce ourselves here through an innovative and beautifully crafted façade, focusing on our singular dedication to craftsmanship and design, fills us with immense pride.”
Located on Westheimer just east of 610, River Oaks District is an 18-acre property that’s home to luxury retail boutiques, upscale restaurants, high-end apartments, office space, and a movie theater. In total, it offers more than 300,000-square-feet of retail, over 67,000-square-feet of office space, and 279 apartment units. Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta purchased the development last year for a reported price of $450 million.