After closing the doors to its Toronto flagship of nearly 30 years (located at 131 Bloor Street West) in December 2016, Paris-based luxury brand Chanel has reopened in the heart of Yorkville. The new 8,700 square foot space at 98 Yorkville Avenue has transformed the former Mount Sinai hospital into an impressive retail location that is one of its kind in Canada.
With the help of architect Peter Marino and design firm dkstudio, the two-storey location has been self-contained – there are no store front windows and shoppers can’t see out of the window panels once inside. While the interior is adorned in Chanel’s iconic black and white scheme, gold accents throughout the building coordinate with custom pieces that were curated in an attempt to provide a feel reminiscent of Coco Chanel’s Parisian apartment. From the carpets, floors and wall detailing, the classic elements work alongside impeccable chandeliers, brass tables and complimenting furniture to offer a glimpse into a lifestyle that coincides with the wealthy and elite.
The main floor is organized into four cohesive spaces that are accessible via the grand entrance foyer, and feature accessories, jewelry, handbags, fragrances and footwear. While the Chanel Cruise collection is currently the main focus of the items on display, there are several items around the store that can’t be found online, like the white-white sneakers with gold details that will run you $1100.00. It should be noted that only a select number of items are found on display, while others are stored and can be searched through iPads at your convenience.
The second floor is home to Karl Lagerfeld’s ready-to-wear collection and welcomes shoppers into the world of Chanel through two intersecting rooms that feature separate lounge areas complete with custom limestone fireplaces. The items on display clearly reflect the change of seasons in Toronto, transitioning from jackets and pant suits to travel luggage, sandals and beach bags. A white puff jacket is one of the items that you’ll find yourself coming back to, but a hefty price tag of $6,595 might make it difficult to decide between a handbag or an outerwear jacket that would only be appropriate in the colder months of the year.