The Spanish luxury brand Polene has opened its first flagship store in China, which is located at Taikoo Li Sanlitun in Beijing.
The exterior features an oversized magnolia installation that acts as a drawcard for visitors entering the space.
Inside, the store blends contemporary design with references to Chinese craftsmanship, incorporating walnut wood, leather and Xuan paper – traditionally made from Blue Sandalwood tree fibres and rice straw – to honour local heritage.
Polene says it upcycled 12 tonnes of leather offcuts to form compressed leather bricks used throughout the interior. It claims the material offers an almost mineral-like texture while integrating sustainability into the store’s design.
In addition, the flagship also houses a three-storey experiential area titled “Craft at Work – A Theatre of Artisanship”.
