PROJECTS
HERMES: NEW YORK FLAGSHIP - Madison Ave.
This exhibition was created for the Hermès flagship location on Madison Avenue, where I was tasked with designing a sculptural installation centered around one of my favorite symbols—a house. The display was designed to resemble one of my paintings brought to life.
We crafted a nocturnal scene featuring a warm, glowing house nestled on a snow-covered landscape, surrounded by poppies reaching skyward. In the background, cold purple mountains and the twinkle of city lights complete the scene. The door of the house opens to reveal a cozy interior, where Hermès products are thoughtfully merchandised. Adding a surreal twist, the windows of the house reveal a daytime scene of green hills overlooking a serene ocean.
This installation was meant to evoke the warmth of a home and remind viewers of the precious moments shared within it.
Installation view of Greg Ito x Hermes installation at New York flagship location on Madison Ave. 2023.
Installation view of Greg Ito x Hermes installation at New York flagship location on Madison Ave. 2023.
Installation view of Greg Ito x Hermes installation at New York flagship location on Madison Ave. 2023.
Installation view of Greg Ito x Hermes installation at New York flagship location on Madison Ave. 2023.
Installation view of Greg Ito x Hermes installation at New York flagship location on Madison Ave. 2023.
HERMES: LOS ANGELES FLAGSHIP - RODEO DR.
For Hermès’ flagship store on Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles, I was tasked with designing a cohesive installation across three window displays. Drawing inspiration from my studio practice, I created a series of sculptures and tailored installations for each window.
The centerpiece of the installation consisted of three small houses that I burned and then cast in aluminum. The resulting sculptures had a striking metallic finish and a haunting, ghostly appearance. These were displayed in carefully crafted environments where I used charcoal as a landscaping element, paired with various faux flowers that appeared to grow from the ashes. This interplay between destruction and renewal created a compelling visual and conceptual contrast.
The backdrop featured panels of charred wood, a nod to the Japanese technique of shou sugi ban, a method of preserving wood through burning. Hermès products were thoughtfully placed alongside the sculptures, elevating the presentation to a museum-quality display. To enhance the surreal and dreamlike atmosphere, I incorporated lighting gels, which cast rich tones across the windows, imbuing the installation with a captivating, otherworldly mood.
This project was a meditation on the duality of loss and growth, merging art and design to create an unforgettable experience for the store's visitors.
