Parisians will be surprised by what’s changing at BHV over the next few years

BHV is about to undergo the biggest transformation in its history. After the controversy surrounding the opening of a Shein boutique last year, the famous Parisian department store is announcing a radical transformation. A luxury hotel will soon occupy more than half its surface area, marking an unprecedented turning point for this monument to commerce.

A new owner for the Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville

Opened in 1856, the BHV quickly became a landmark for Parisians. For more than a century, the capital’s inhabitants have flocked there to make purchases of all kinds. In recent months, however, its floors have emptied.

Many customers decided to stay away from the building following the collaboration with the Chinese brand Shein. This decision had a visible impact on the department store’s footfall. Since January, a new era has begun for this iconic rue de Rivoli landmark.

Brookfield fund takes the lead

Last January, with the utmost discretion, the owner of the premises changed. Galeries Lafayette gave way to the Canadian fund Brookfield. Brookfield intends to change the face of the Parisian store.

“The real estate portfolio management company will manage the fund on behalf of Brookfield, which will finance the transformation of the BHV Marais building.

The project is estimated to cost over 200 million euros. Aroxys has been commissioned to lead this ambitious transformation. Over the next four years, it will have the onerous task of changing the DNA of the site.

A reduced but redesigned retail space

Gone is the huge shopping area as we know it today. Within 48 months, the sales area will be reduced to just 40% of the building’s surface. This drastic reduction marks a change in the department store’s primary function.

Despite this reduction, the major hallmarks of the store will be retained. Customers will find the elements that have made the brand’s reputation.

• A food hall maintained
• A preserved beauty space
• A second-hand corner
• Creation of BHV’s own clothing brand
• Big-name flagships in enclosed spaces

City-center stores and flagships

What will become of the remaining 60% of the surface? Out of a total of 45,000 m², this represents a considerable amount of space. According to initial announcements, this part will be redefined as hybrid space.

This space will house the flagships of major brands. Unlike existing stores, these spaces will be enclosed. Downtown shops will complete the new offering.

A luxury hotel on the top floor of BHV

The top two floors will undergo the most spectacular transformation. They are to be converted into a luxury hotel. This transformation illustrates the current trend for department stores to diversify their activities.

TheExperimental Group is to manage the establishment. This hotel group already has 3 establishments in the capital. Its addresses are in the Marais, Grands Boulevards and Pigalle.

Sleeping in the heart of the Marais, in a building steeped in history, will soon be possible. This unique experience will undoubtedly attract an international clientele. The view of the Hôtel de Ville promises memorable nights.

Pending authorizations and unanswered questions

For the time being, Brookfield and Aroxys are still awaiting authorization from Paris City Hall. The Hôtel de Ville, just across the street, will have to give the green light. This geographical proximity makes for a very special situation.

Nothing has been announced about the fate of the department store’s 700-plus employees. This remains a major concern. The coming months will bring further clarification on the future of these employees.

The transformation of the Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville is already provoking widespread reactions. Opinions are divided between enthusiasm for the revival and social concerns. The building on rue de Rivoli has certainly not finished making news.

• BHV