Acne Studios has officially opened its new Paris headquarters, located in a former 1930s laboratory on Rue des Petites Écuries. The space reflects the brand’s design ethos — a careful balance of historic preservation and modern creativity.
A Dialogue Between Past and Present
The transformation was led by Acne Studios’ creative director Jonny Johansson in collaboration with Swedish design studio Halleroed. Their vision was not to erase history but to highlight it.
“Our main focus was to respect the history of the space while bringing in a fresh, modern energy,” Johansson explained. “The building itself has this incredible architectural presence – it’s filled with stories, and you can feel that when you walk through the rooms. We didn’t want to strip that away. Instead, we wanted to create a kind of dialogue between the past and present.”
Design That Honors History
At the heart of the headquarters is a courtyard, around which restored details — like gold-painted moldings and classic parquet floors — sit alongside bold new interventions.
One striking focal point is a pink vinyl Max Lamb sofa, while the raw concrete showroom with a vaulted, glass-tiled ceiling pushes the contrast further. These modern elements are meant to feel “inserted rather than integrated,” preserving the building’s original character while layering in contemporary design.
A Space That Embodies the Brand
The finished project captures Acne Studios’ dual identity: avant-garde yet respectful of tradition. By allowing the building’s history to guide the design, the headquarters reflects the fashion house’s creative philosophy while establishing a strong presence in Paris.
