EXTERIOR PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF LAWRENCE ANDERSON STUDIO
Situated on one of the world’s most iconic luxury retail streets, the nearly 5,000-square-foot boutique on Rodeo Drive has been completely transformed to represent Tory Burch’s next chapter. Designed in collaboration with Gwenael Nicolas from Curiosity, the space highlights texture, craftsmanship, and light as essential design elements.
The exterior features a sculptural trellis façade, fabricated in China, shipped in nine sections, and assembled on-site. This design creates a ceramic-inspired finish that reflects changing light throughout the day. Inside, the curved walls are adorned with hand-applied striated plaster by a New York artisan, and a marble staircase connects the three levels with subtle elegance. At the heart of the boutique is the third-floor atrium, a bright and open space that serves as both an architectural centerpiece and a hub for VIP experiences.
It showcases Tory Burch’s ready-to-wear collection, fine jewelry, and an exclusive private salon. Natural light floods the area, balancing minimal detailing with warmth and openness. Many of the store’s furnishings and finishes were personally selected by Tory Burch, blending vintage and antique pieces with materials sourced from around the globe. Moroccan rugs, ceramic pedestals from Barcelona, and custom tapestry textiles designed by the brand’s in-house team all contribute to a curated and inviting environment that is both sophisticated and welcoming.
Schimenti collaborated closely with the Tory Burch team throughout the construction process to adjust timelines, source specialty materials from overseas, and navigate city inspections. The final design evolved significantly from the original concept, with each change reflecting the brand’s ongoing pursuit of refinement and intention.
Managing these changes in real time required constant communication and strong alignment among project teams, design collaborators, and subcontractors. Schimenti remained responsive at every phase, handling field adjustments, coordinating international logistics, and maintaining momentum despite shifting requirements and approvals.
“California retailers often set global retail trends, and recently, those have moved away from a bigger-is-better approach to more bespoke experiences that blur the lines between hospitality and high-end lifestyle within a smaller footprint.”
– Oliver Holland, Vice President of Construction
From Temporary Pop-Up to Flagship Redesign
The collaboration between Schimenti Construction and Tory Burch began with a temporary concept store on Melrose, designed in partnership with renowned fashion designer Humberto Leon. The playful, cat-and-mouse-themed space was built in just under four weeks and featured shag carpeting, custom finishes, and black-and-white animal portraits by photographer Walter Schels.
While the Melrose store was under construction, Schimenti began planning for the flagship location on Rodeo Drive. Demolition started shortly after, and a series of significant design changes altered the project’s scope and timeline. During this same period, Schimenti successfully completed new Tory Burch locations at Woodbury Common in Central Valley, NY, and the Citadel Outlets in Commerce, CA. These projects showcased the brand’s retail momentum and the effective coordination among Schimenti’s regional teams.
From the fast-track pop-up on Melrose to the brands transformation of the Rodeo Drive flagship, the partnership between Tory Burch and Schimenti continues to flourish, characterized by creative collaboration, adaptability, and a shared vision.