By Åse Anderson
Travellers can indulge in a spot of fine jewellery or watch shopping before jetting off thanks to the arrival of Louis Vuitton and Cartier at Terminal 5.
Conveniently located just beyond the security checks, the Cartier boutique opened its doors shortly before Christmas. While Cartier jewellery is sold through its Harrods concessions in Terminals 3 and 4, the Terminal 5 boutique is the maison's first standalone store at Heathrow airport. The 130sq m boutique is divided into three separate spaces for jewellery, watches and accessories. Like all Cartier stores worldwide, the bronze-coloured interior design is based on the so-called 'Moinard' concept developed by French architect Bruno Moinard.
Laurent Feniou, managing director of Cartier UK, said: "We are delighted to open a Cartier boutique in Heathrow Terminal 5 in order to cater to mobile consumers and to bring the boutique atmosphere and experience to a travel environment."
Louis Vuitton also opened its first European airport store at Heathrow's Terminal 5 last month. The 301sq m store sells Louis Vuitton jewellery and watches as well as a selection of the maison's leather goods, women's ready-to-wear, shoes, accessories and sunglasses. The shop's transparent exterior gives busy travellers an instant overview of its contents, while beige leathers, smoked teakwood and antique brass create an atmosphere of warmth and luxury. Louis Vuitton has also commissioned French artist Ange Leccia to make a film depicting the Mediterranean Sea that will be shown on a screen attached to the store's exterior.
