Louis Vuitton has launched an ambitious new concept space in Shanghai titled “The Louis”, integrating retail, a café, and a large-scale exhibition, all housed within a striking boat-shaped structure. This innovative venue is located on Wujiang Road in the city’s bustling central business district and draws from both Louis Vuitton’s heritage in luxury travel and Shanghai’s maritime legacy as the “Gateway to the East.”
The design of The Louis in Shanghai mimics a grand ocean liner, with monogrammed hulls and deck levels that resemble stacked trunks. The project pays homage to the House’s 19th-century origins in transoceanic travel and its continued evolution as a cultural and experiential brand. The structure includes Le Café Louis Vuitton, which serves refined East-meets-West cuisine, and Louis Vuitton Visionary Journeys, a two-floor exhibition celebrating the House’s history of craftsmanship, innovation, fashion, and design.
A Brand Story
The exhibition, designed by Shohei Shigematsu of OMA, unfolds as an immersive voyage. It begins with Trunkscape, a surreal archway of Monogram trunks, and continues through themed rooms that explore Louis Vuitton’s ties to travel, scent, sport, books, fashion, and artisanal skill. Key highlights include displays of historic trunks, fragrance collections, custom library trunks, and archival fashion pieces from renowned artistic directors. A dedicated workshop area demonstrates traditional craftsmanship with live artisan showcases.
Le Café Louis Vuitton, located on the third floor, is helmed by Chefs Leonardo Zambrino and Zoe Zhou. The menu reflects global influences with locally inspired twists, including standout dishes like Monogram Raviolis, Club Pont Neuf, and Louis Hao seabream carpaccio. Signature desserts, such as the Peach Charlotte and exotic fruit Pavlova, offer an elegant conclusion to the dining experience.
The Louis stands as a testament to Louis Vuitton’s commitment to cultural expression, turning retail into a multidimensional journey. It celebrates Shanghai’s status as a global city, linking history with modernity, and East with West. Open daily with free admission, visitors can register through the “My LV” WeChat mini-program.
This pioneering concept not only redefines the luxury shopping experience but also affirms Louis Vuitton’s status as a House of Culture, where artistry, innovation, and heritage converge in a vibrant, urban setting.
