Tiffany’s Landmark

In the words of Italian scholar Alba Cappellieri, “A landmark is an urban sign, an icon of the cityscape, a visually recognized and recognizable monumental edifice that embodies an organization’s aesthetics, values, and content.” The new Tiffany & Co. Manhattan location is not a flagship, as much as it is a landmark and cultural hub for jewelry aficionados, New York City visitors, and Tiffany’s enthusiasts alike. 

Exterior of The Landmark, with the three-story addition designed by the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA), led by Shohei Shigematsu. (Courtesy of BloomImages GmbH)

Situated at the iconic intersection of 57th Street and Fifth Avenue, and originally constructed in 1940, Tiffany’s New York store, dubbed “The Landmark,” reopened its doors in April 2023. This event marked the culmination of an ambitious four-year renovation stewarded by LVMH, aiming to underscore the unique historical significance of this specific location compared to its many global stores. Said to be LVMH’s largest retail investment in a single store, the new Landmark seeks to “crystallize Tiffany’s values for the new millennium.” With contemporary interiors designed by Peter Marino, The Landmark features a grand sculptural spiral staircase, artwork by the world’s most celebrated designers, and event space designed by Shohei Shigematsu of the Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA). “When people walk into the store, I want them to feel exhilarated, joyous, and elegant. My main consideration was how to lighten and brighten an American icon without hurting its classic style,” said Peter Marino.

Assouline’s latest book, co-authored by Cappellieri along with Christopher Young, Tiffany & Co.’s Vice President for Creative Visual Merchandising, Events, and the Tiffany Archives, celebrates The Landmark. Dating back to 1837, the book delves into Tiffany & Co.’s history, including its New York City locations, most iconic jewels, dreamy window displays, renowned craftsmanship, and legendary Hollywood moments.

Pach Bros. photograph of the silver etching, enameling, and finishing department at Forest Hill Works, 1897.
(Courtesy of The Tiffany Archives)

Reflecting on the timeless elegance of Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly clad in oversized black sunglasses, multiple strands of pearls, and a Givenchy dress—a look forever etched in cinematic history—during the filming of Breakfast at Tiffany’s in 1960, and leading up to the glittering, star-studded opening night celebration of The Landmark just last year, this book pays homage to America’s most distinguished jewelry brand and its storied retail emporium. 

Jean Schlumberger’s iconic enamel bracelets were coveted by the most stylish women, including Jacqueline Kennedy.
(Courtesy of Thomas Milewski)