Notabene flagship by Norm Architects

In the new flagship store for high-end shoe brand Notabene, vertical lines are repeated within the structure of a wooden staircase, free-standing concrete plinths and in soft folding curtains to create a harmonious and coherent space, leaving room for the fine handmade shoes to stand out and be the centre of attention. Connecting the different functions and levels of the space, the monumental staircase is not only an intriguing contrast to the softness of the bespoke furniture and the delicate shoes, but is also acting as a grand sculpture, adding a certain grandiosity to the architecture - Norm Architects

I don't know how you feel, but I really enjoy it when a store looks special and inspiring. When I visited the just opened New Mags store in Copenhagen (also designed by Norm Architects) a while ago, I was amazed. I also had this feeling when I saw the images of the newly opened flagship store of shoe brand Notabene. The Notabene flagship store on Møntergade is located in one of the most exclusive areas of the old City of Copenhagen.

“Entering the store, one is welcomed by a grand double-height space with exposed and tactile concrete walls, an original terrazzo flooring, striking minimalist aluminium shelves and clay podiums, showcasing the newest collection of Italian handmade shoes as delicate icons. Norm Architects has completely redesigned the Notabene retail experience and created a hub where all things surrounding shoe design and shoe care are unified in a big industrial space comprising retail, shoeshine bar and creative lab. Carefully crafted by Japanese furniture brand Karimoku Case Study and local craftsmen alike, elegant furniture pieces accompany a monumental wooden staircase that sculpturally connects the three levels of the space, while playfully letting in the sunlight through its oak structure. The material combination of elegant wooden details, lush bouclé fabrics, hand brushed aluminium surfaces and rippled concrete creates an edgy universe that is both relaxed, refined, and luxurious at the same time”.

Can't wait to admire this beautiful store on my next visit to Copenhagen. A great new "must visit" when going to this always inspiring city if you ask me - Elvera

Photography by @jonasbjerrepoulsen