Paris' La Samaritaine reopens after 16 years
The 150-year-old store with art deco furnishings and artwork had to shut its doors in 2005 as its original glass flooring was not sufficiently fire-resistant.
Luxury goods group LVMH is behind the revamped La Samaritaine, designed to help it grab a greater slice of tourist spending once pandemic travel curbs are eased.
After a seven-year makeover, the historic store will rival the likes of Galeries Lafayette, housing a hotel, restaurants and shops. LVMH Chairman Bernard Arnault said they also want to dedicate a part of the building to public housing.
Its reopening, originally scheduled for last year, was delayed by the global health crisis.
