The BVLGARI Boutique

WORDS Cheri Morris IMAGES Gionata Xerra


Bulgari, contemporary jeweller and master of precious gemstones, brings Rome to Africa with a boutique that recently opened in the iconic hub of style and luxury, Sandton City Diamond Walk.

The store opened in May 2016 as the first monobrand boutique of its kind. It was designed by world renowned American architect Peter Marino to feel like a little piece of Rome, with Mediterranean origins and an Italian touch. Marble reminiscent of ancient Roman buildings, coupled with classic geometry make for a luxurious combination of innovation and tradition.

The 146 square metre store is framed by black Grand Antique marble and white Travertine Navana columns that give way to the iconic Condotti windows. The windows are embellished with imperial saffron shantung silk to complement the cream and saffron colour theme and bespoke furniture pieces chosen by Marino.

Careful curation of origami tiles in the different hues of gold that are used in the brand’s jewellery, together with Italian walnut parquet flooring in geometric patterns creates the illusion of natural light. The walnut wood has a degraded effect, as each segment is carefully sun-dried for different lengths of time before being crafted together by artisan carpenters.

A Carlo Scarpa-inspired, oval-shaped counter in galvanised iron is illuminated by two crystal chandeliers by Vistosi. For the exclusive viewing of the most prized pieces, there are semi-private areas that are defined by Pantheon mesh and the Condotti eight-point star that is symbolic of balance, harmony and cosmic order.

Visit the boutique Monday to Saturday from 9am to 8pm and on Sundays and public holidays from 9am to 6pm.