Harry Rosen soars to new heights on Bloor Street

03 Sep '08

5 min read

After more than two years of planning, designing, and constructing, Harry Rosen Bloor Street finally unveils itself as the largest and most luxurious menswear store in Canada.

Representing the largest capital investment ever made by the company, the new Toronto flagship location store is comprised of nearly 50,000 square feet over five floors, and is a prestigious home for the finest goods that the world has to offer, with representation from the entire spectrum of menswear.

The current Bloor Street location was launched in 1987, and at that time represented a breakthrough in menswear retailing. By adding almost 20,000 square feet and two floors to the original store, in addition to full-store remodelling and redesign, the store now offers an expanded leather and footwear shop, Made-to-Measure area, a larger Bespoke Tailoring department, and private selling rooms.

True to its roots, Harry Rosen has searched the world to bring the finest gathering of designer shops and collections to its retail floors, and the new store includes many more prominent and exclusive designer shop-in-shops, including those from such prestigious designers as Tom Ford, Armani Collezioni, Dolce and Gabbana, Ermenegildo Zegna, Canali and BOSS Hugo Boss.

As well, for the first time, the store now boasts an extensive fragrance and skin-care area, truly solidifying its distinction as a one-stop shop for men.

"Fifty-four years of menswear experience went into the planning and design of this store," says Larry Rosen, CEO and Chairman.

"This is really the fulfillment of our dream to create a world-class better-end men's emporium. We have succeeded in creating something that is completely unique to this market and have elevated ourselves far beyond the standards of menswear retailing."

Working closely with Rosen, the store was created by in-house designer, Mark Teixeira, with outside consultants used for several aspects, such as the exterior.

The overall feel of the store is contemporary and elegant but remains quite neutral to allow each designer shop to shine through. "The intention of the design is to offer a world of quality menswear in an approachable environment," explains Rosen.

Stepping onto the marble floor through the main entrance, the customer is greeted with a fresh, contemporary feeling brought on by Asian walnut and with highly polished nickel fixtures.

Here the customer will find sportswear, outerwear, dress furnishings and an enhanced leather department, featuring shoes, bags and accessories.

Jewellery and cufflinks are also housed on the main floor, boasting a collection that is second to none. In addition, the main floor features a fragrance and skin-care area, with many high-end brands including Armani, Zegna, John Allans, Juicy Couture, Shiseido and Jean Paul Gaultier.

The industrial Lower Level, with its rough-welded exposed fixtures, suggests a feeling of controlled chaos and a spontaneous flow of merchandise. Here the customer can purchase denim and casual wear.

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