La Samaritaine, a name synonymous with Parisian elegance and style, has a rich and fascinating history spanning centuries. Today, it stands as a concept-store, a vibrant hub of fashion, beauty, and gastronomy, but its journey began much simpler: with a water pump.
The Humble Beginnings: A Pump on the Pont Neuf
In the early 17th century, King Henry IV recognized the need for improved water access in Paris. To address this, he authorized the construction of a large water pump on the Pont Neuf, a bridge renowned for its grandeur. This innovative pump, aptly named “Pompe de la Samaritaine”, marked a significant technological leap for its time. Before its arrival, water was primarily obtained from wells within courtyards or delivered by manual carriers.
The pump’s unique name stemmed from a sculptural representation of the biblical encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at Jacob’s Well. This intricate artwork, created by Bernard and René Frémin, adorned the pump, adding a touch of artistry to its practical purpose.
A Grand Magasin Emerges: Ernest Cognacq’s Vision
Fast forward to the late 19th century, and the area once occupied by the pump witnessed a remarkable transformation. In 1870, Ernest Cognacq, a visionary entrepreneur, founded La Samaritaine as a Grand Magasin, a grand department store that mirrored the spirit of innovation and elegance synonymous with Paris. Unlike the pump before it, this Grand Magasin was a testament to luxury and commerce, offering a vast array of goods to the Parisian populace.
La Samaritaine quickly became a shopping destination, rivaling other famous Parisian department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps. Its vast size and diverse offerings made it the largest department store in Paris, boasting a whopping 48,000 square meters of retail space. Its slogan, “You can find everything at La Samaritaine,” resonated with shoppers, showcasing the store’s all-encompassing selection.
A Transformation and Closure: The Rise and Fall of a Parisian Icon
The 20th century saw La Samaritaine evolve and face challenges. From the 1970s onwards, its commercial success started to wane. The store adapted, transitioning into a mixed-use building with office and retail spaces. This shift reflected the evolving needs of the city and signaled a change in the department store landscape.
Despite its adjustments, the once-thriving Grand Magasin faced financial difficulties. In 2001, the Renand family sold La Samaritaine, which had become unprofitable, to the luxury conglomerate LVMH. The department store eventually closed its doors in 2005, marking the end of an era. This closure was a result of various factors, including the presence of asbestos, deteriorating conditions, and legal disputes.
A Rebirth: La Samaritaine Concept-Store
After a 16-year hiatus, La Samaritaine emerged from its slumber, revitalized and reimagined as a concept-store. Its reopening in 2021 was a momentous event, celebrated in the presence of President Macron, signifying the return of a Parisian icon.
The new La Samaritaine, designed by the renowned Japanese agency Sanaa, seamlessly blended heritage and innovation. The project extended far beyond the concept-store, encompassing a luxurious Cheval Blanc hotel, office spaces, social housing units, and a daycare center. This ambitious undertaking demonstrated the transformative power of revitalization and the potential for a project to contribute to the surrounding community.
A Modern Oasis of Parisian Elegance: Fashion, Beauty, and Gastronomy
The concept-store itself boasts an impressive 20,000 square meters of retail space, showcasing a diverse array of products and services.
Fashion enthusiasts are treated to an array of brands, ranging from luxury labels to emerging designers, all under the iconic glass roof of the shopping center.
Beauty takes center stage with a dedicated 3,000-square-meter space, the largest in Paris and Europe. Shoppers can indulge in exclusive beauty products, receive make-up consultations, and even participate in “masterclasses.”
Wellness is also a key aspect of the concept-store experience. A spa and a beauty studio offer a range of treatments, from relaxing massages to innovative hair care services.
Gastronomy, an integral part of the Parisian lifestyle, is celebrated on the 5th floor. A selection of restaurants, cafes, and tea rooms offer a delightful culinary journey, showcasing the best of French cuisine.
La Samaritaine: A Timeless Icon Reimagined
From a humble water pump to a grand department store and now a vibrant concept-store, La Samaritaine stands as a testament to Parisian resilience, innovation, and the enduring power of elegance.
