Soft touch: Universal Design Studio brings tactile textures to J&M Davidson’s new London boutique
Universal Design Studio brings tactile textures to J&M Davidson's new London boutique on Mount Street
A stroll down Mount Street in London reads like a Who’s Who of fashion’s finest, revealing stores from the likes of Céline, Simone Rocha, Roksanda Ilincic and Delfina Delettrez. This week, the well-heeled Mayfair street welcomed its latest shopping shrine in the form of J&M Davidson’s new boutique – the brand’s second in the city and third worldwide – with interiors conceived by Universal Design Studio.
Launched in 1984 by Anglo-French partners John and Monique Davidson, the British label initially focused on handcrafted leathers, before branching out to handbags, leather accessories, clothing and knitwear. Celebrating its 30th anniversary last year, the brand has gained a cult following, especially in Japan where it maintains a flagship in Tokyo’s Aoyama district.
Housed in a Grade II listed building, J&M Davidson’s freshly launched London store takes its cues from Mount Street’s terracotta period buildings. Decked out in a muted palette of dusty taupe, earthy grey and blushing pink, the interiors are anchored by clean, minimalist lines, and brushed brass fixtures.
'We were keen that the space had a strong dialogue with its place whilst reflecting [J&M Davidson’s] commitment to craftsmanship, quality and attention to detail, expressing the timeless and understated nature of the brand,' explains Jason Holley, co-director of Universal Design Studio. The London firm was founded by duo Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby in 2001 to focus on architecture and interior design projects.
The centrepiece is a cantilevered staircase crafted from solid terrazzo marble, while its luxurious leather-wrapped handrail is a joy to grip on our descent to the lower floor. The terrazzo flooring continues throughout the space, coupled with bespoke cast-glass plinths and heavy concrete countertops. Ethereal qualities resonate further in the store’s soft, rounded fittings and vintage furniture pieces, sourced in collaboration with interior designer Nicholas Chandor.
Information
For more information, visit the J&M Davidson website
Photography: Charles Hosea
Address
104 Mount St
London W1K 2TL
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