Asprey

Asprey is a British luxury goods brand with a worldwide reputation. Occupying the same premises on New Bond Street since 1846, but expanding over the years to several listed buildings behind the original shop, architects Foster + Partners were commissioned to link these spaces and in doing so, project a bold vision for the retailer’s future.

By clearing away unnecessary structures, restoring the facades and building a glass canopy overhead, the architects created a courtyard at the heart of the shop. A self-supporting sweeping helical staircase was then installed, where we were asked to create a continuous and completely seamless leather handrail, to lead visitors between the two retail levels.

Elsewhere in the space, wall and lift panels were developed from French calf leather in tan and cream tones. Lightly padded, with a field-stitched perimeter, these have since become a feature often associated with Bill’s architectural approach to leatherwork.