Romain Poirier, the Managing Director of French House, sat down with us to review the conception, challenges, and unique aspects of the TreasureCare luxury watch service center at the Ritz Portman in central Shanghai. French House, established in Paris in 1965 and expanded to Shanghai and Hong Kong in 2018, has built a reputation for its expertise in architecture, design, and construction.
Q1. What were the conception and goals of the service center project? What kind of ideas and concepts did the design want to convey?
Romain Poirier: The conception of our luxury watch service center aimed to marry elegance with functionality, creating a workshop that exudes both sophistication and practicality. Our design philosophy is centered on seamlessly integrating aesthetic allure with efficient operational workflows. We envisioned a space that not only caters to the meticulous servicing needs of high-end timepieces but also immerses clients in an ambiance of craftsmanship and exclusivity. Every detail, from the bespoke furniture to the ambient lighting, was meticulously chosen to enhance the experience of both our artisans and discerning clientele, reflecting our commitment to excellence in watch servicing.
Q2. Where did the design inspiration come from? How were the overall style, the key visual, and the color palette (wall, floor, furniture, etc.) finalized?
Romain Poirier: The design inspiration for our luxury watch service center was rooted in the elegance of high-end timepieces. We chose ringbone-style wood flooring for the reception area to evoke craftsmanship and antistatic PVC for the workshop for practicality. The furniture combines anti-fingerprint stainless steel for durability with premium wood accents for warmth and luxury. Our color palette, featuring neutral tones on walls and floors, complements the watches on display, while soft hues in furniture upholstery enhance the overall ambiance, ensuring a harmonious and inviting environment for clients and artisans alike.
Q3. What is unique about the design of the watch & jewelry service center compared to previous projects you have designed?
Romain Poirier: Each project we undertake is uniquely tailored, and our watch and jewelry service center is no exception. We focus on optimizing space, harnessing natural light, and selecting materials that reflect the specific needs and desires of our clients. Our approach is custom-designed to enhance functionality, elegance, and client experience, ensuring that each project stands out with its own distinct character and purpose.
Q4. The service center has several functional zones. How did the design meet the needs of the different functions and ensure harmony and coherence within the space?
Romain Poirier: The service center design seamlessly integrates diverse functional zones such as reception, workshop, polishing room, cleaning room, admin office, employees area, and watchmaking area (clean), optimizing workflow and client experience. We prioritized flow by closely collaborating with the client to understand operational nuances and integrate necessary technologies and safety measures tailored to each zone's specific requirements. This approach ensures both efficiency and a cohesive, luxurious ambiance throughout the service center.
Q5. Were there any challenges during the conception and construction of the project? How did you and your team deal with them?
Romain Poirier: Yes, the project presented several challenges including working within restricted hours and implementing high-end finishes. Our team addressed these challenges through diligent on-site supervision and rigorous project management. By maintaining close oversight, we ensured adherence to budget, timeline, quality standards, and safety protocols, demonstrating that effective project management is as crucial as design expertise in achieving successful outcomes.
Q6. What would you like to say to customers coming into this new service center? What kind of experience do you think they will have?
Romain Poirier: Welcome to our newly designed service center! As you step into this space, tailored specifically with your needs in mind, we aim to provide you with an unparalleled experience. Whether you're here for consultation, maintenance, or premium service, anticipate personalized attention, state-of-the-art facilities, and a seamless process crafted to exceed your expectations. We look forward to ensuring your time with us is both productive and enjoyable.
About French House
French House, founded in 1965 in Paris, has built a legacy of excellence in architecture, design, and construction. Expanding to Shanghai and Hong Kong in 2018, French House continues to uphold its reputation for delivering high-quality projects across various sectors. Under the leadership of Romain Poirier, French House offers comprehensive services including Concept & Initiation, Cost Management, Architecture, Interior Design, Construction Management, and Project Management. Committed to transparency, flexibility, and sustainability, French House ensures the success of each project while prioritizing client satisfaction and exceptional service. Website: www.frenchhouse.cn