Hermès has announced the opening of its new store at the historic Plaza del Lago mall on 7 August 2026, bringing the house’s sixteen métiers to Lake Michigan’s North Shore. Set against a landscape defined by water, light and abundant wildlife, the new space draws inspiration from its distinctive surroundings while celebrating the craftsmanship and creativity of the house.
The store’s Spanish Revival façade has been carefully preserved in tribute to the building’s century-old heritage. An iconic bell tower defines the exterior, while enlarged windows invite natural light into the two-level space, creating a luminous connection between the historic architecture and the contemporary interior.
On the ground floor, a radiant honey-hued palette establishes a warm atmosphere. Delicate dragonfly wing motifs appear in stucco and wood, introducing a recurring reference to the natural environment. The entrance features Hermès’ emblematic ex-libris alongside Grecques lighting, opening onto the silk universe and fashion jewelry.
Silken walls and carpets inspired by the compressed agate found across Lake Michigan frame the home collection, positioned alongside the equestrian area, while fragrances occupy the opposite side. A sculptural spiral staircase, detailed with intricate dragonfly wing patterns, leads to the upper level.
Upstairs, generous natural light illuminates the men’s universe and women’s ready-to-wear, positioned opposite women’s shoes. Handmade carpets in subtle color gradients add warmth and movement to the expansive space. At the center, an intimate setting dedicated to jewelry, watches and leather goods is enclosed by light wood walls. Their engraved surfaces evoke reflections of sunlight across the lake, with additional dragonfly-inspired details reinforcing the connection to the surrounding landscape.
Designed by Parisian architecture agency RDAI, the contemporary interior explores the interplay of light, texture and craftsmanship. Ancient agate stone provides a visual point of departure, while references to the local natural environment bring a distinctly regional character to the space. Throughout, refined materials and tactile details preserve an atmosphere that feels both elegant and intimate.
The artistic selection further extends Hermès’ creative heritage. Works from the Émile Hermès Collection and the Hermès Collection of Contemporary Photographs introduce a dialogue between the house’s history and contemporary artistic expression. Among the featured works is Commuter Discourse, photographed by American artist Barbara Crane in Chicago in 1978. The presentation also features the Hermès Dress Code carré, designed by celebrated American artist Daniel Clowes.
With its harmonious combination of historic architecture, local references, contemporary design and artistic craftsmanship, the new Hermès store at Plaza del Lago offers an immersive setting for discovering the house’s vivid and abundant creations. From silk and fashion jewelry to home, equestrian, fragrances, ready-to-wear, shoes, watches, jewelry and leather goods, each universe unfolds within a carefully considered narrative inspired by the light, textures and natural beauty of Lake Michigan’s North Shore.
Photos by Hermès
