Fine and applied art are not only the great passion of Nicolas Libert and Emmanuel Renoird, they are also the driving force behind an extravagant shopping destination in Los Angeles. After many years of success in the French capital, the estate agent and interior designer felt that it was high time for a new challenge. They wanted to share their enthusiasm for contemporary creative outputs with like-minded people. But how?
A breath-taking concept sprang to mind, as well as a very special location. An unusual project developed gradually over time – and because they were longing for a completely new beginning back then, a far-off destination had a definite appeal. So it was full speed ahead to California and the City of Dreams. Where else would be a better location for this type of store? In April 2014 the time had finally come – ‘Please do not enter’ was launched. Even if the name is slightly misleading, it certainly fulfils its purpose. “We instantly liked the idea of a hidden, private space. ‘Please do not enter’ may be a warning, yet it also makes people curious. People will be dying to know what’s in there,” says Renoird.
On the 12th Floor
Press the top button in the lift and step out on the 12th floor into a world of fantasy and excitement. Situated in an elegant skyscraper in downtown Los Angeles, this unique store is a mixture of boutique and gallery and offers a highly exclusive contemporary selection of fashion and accessories. Libert and Renoird’s hand-picked selection focuses on men who always want to be a little ahead of the zeitgeist. Men who are always looking for that something special and take an interest in things with an exciting history. It’s obvious that the owners know all there is to know about design and architecture. Not only is the penthouse location extraordinary, but so, too, is the interior design – an enlightened blend of modern and beaux-arts inescapably ensnares every visitor. A lot of hard work goes on here. This is a place where they can both run riot, developing and testing out new concepts. The interior of the spacious loft was largely designed by Emmanuel Renoird and provides every imaginable possibility for the perfect staging of individual products and objects. Inspiration was taken from the international art scene as well as, of course, from their many travels. For example, shoes and bags are strewn on strange armchairs or vintage hospital beds, while modest pedestals and cabinets display jewellery or artworks by Douglas Gordon, Christian Boltanski, Anri Sala, Jesper Just and Adel Abdessemed. Thanks to a frequently changing look to the store, the focus can be constantly shifted to new elements.
A wide range of rarities
There is fashion from Walter van Beirendonck, Denis Colomb, Christophe Lemaire, Jean Paul Knott, Andrea Cammarosano, 22/4, Gaspard Yurkevich, Misericordia, Hamilton & Hare, Kinder and Tank, Xarifa and Not Guilty. Accessories from Kobja, Gertrud & George, Pete Sorensen, Kai, Oliver Ruuger, Oscar Maschera, Ursul, le Gramme, Adrien Moniquet, L.G.R. etc. round off the wide selection. The store was primarily designed for the distinguished man; however, a large proportion of the range, like the functional and fetching everyday items such as headphones, books, fragrances, Japanese stationary and so on, has also irresistible to the fairer sex. Even though it all may sound extremely exclusive and elitist, the owners make sure that customers never get this impression. It is not a place, therefore, reserved for high society – design-focused ordinary mortals with less bulging purses are also warmly welcomed. ‘Please do not enter’ is a fantastic place that simply has to be seen. But be warned, it’s open by appointment only!
www.pleasedonotenter.com
