Malmaison by The Hour Glass
Location: Pullman Singapore Orchard
Client: The Hour Glass
Builder: Kingsmen
Photographer: EK Yap
Malmaison by The Hour Glass, located adjacent to Orchard Road, is a multi-brand boutique watch and luxury goods store in the heart of Singapore. It is known as the first luxury emporium in the country, truly celebrating artistry and craftsmanship.
Inspired by the Imperial Palace of Malmaison in Paris, occupied by Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Joséphine, the store reflects their prominence as tastemakers and purveyors of luxury. Napoleonic elements and references are incorporated into all aspects of the design. Objects, paintings, antique clocks, and a remarkable collection of French sabres sit integrated with a highly decorative fitout that has a marked touch of the modern as well. The store embodies Napoleon's interest in the horological arts, and feels like a museum for joyful discovery.
The entrance features a library-like room with dark timber and coloured books lining the walls. Different rooms within the store house the finest and most exclusive watches, protected by a large plaster griffin sourced from Paris. Animal figures reminiscent of Joséphine's exotic garden, can be found inside the store.
The store also pays homage to Napoleon's use of bees in his heraldry. Over a thousand brass bees were made for the project, seen in various flight modes on columns. Dark lacquer and black leather panels showcase the curated menswear section, while a blue velvet room with brass accents displays Tay's collection of French Napoleonic sabres.
The stairwell leading to the salon features bright yellow Jim Thompson silk, and the top of the stairs showcases a luxury art book display. The private office room features oak-lined walls and a ceiling adorned with printed Patek Philippe celestial constellation patterns.