Camper has unveiled its redesigned store at Opéra in Paris, conceived by Italian architecture studio Piovenefabi. Situated next to the main entrance of the Palais Garnier, the store sits within the monumental cityscape of the Opéra district, one of the most emblematic results of Haussmann’s transformation of Paris in the 19th century. Rather than competing with its surroundings, the project responds to the historical context through an intervention that bridges the gap between the existing building and a new spatial experience.

“The Haussmannian façade provides a flexible framework,” said Giovanni Piovene, founding partner of Piovenefabi. “The double-height entrance establishes a dialogue between the scale of the city and the grandeur of the Opéra.” The design centres on a freestanding architectural element that reorganises the interior independently of the original shell. A continuous sequence of curves creates fluid circulation while fostering a more intimate atmosphere. “Instead of viewing the shop window as a boundary, the project conceives it as an interface between the city and the interior,” Piovene explained. “For us, entering the store should feel like stepping into a hand-drawn sketch.”

Functional elements like the checkout counter and display windows are integrated into the spaces between the new structure and the historic architecture. The central piece of furniture features a hand-painted composition of yellow and red lines following the floor plan, turning the architecture itself into a drawing. “Composed of freehand strokes, the design was painted directly onto the wood by hand rather than being mechanically printed,” said Ambra Fabi, founding partner of Piovenefabi. “This artisanal process imbues the surface with a warmth and subtle imperfection that could never be achieved through industrial production.” A monumental tilted mirror facing the street, reminiscent of traditional Parisian bistro mirrors, reflects both the city and the movement of visitors.

“Our stores are one of the purest expressions of Camper as a design brand,” said Miguel Fluxà, CEO of Camper. “Opéra perfectly reflects this ambition, uniting architecture, craftsmanship, and our long-standing connection to Paris.”

Camper Opéra is now open at 8 Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris.