Christian Louboutin Boutique opens in Beirut

The souks, a tradition of Lebanese culture, have been rebuilt into a modern hub of luxury shopping and entertainment by Solidere while maintaining the landmarks and street names.

Unmatched in the Middle East for its size and scale, the 1000 square foot Christian Louboutin boutique is located on Fakhry Bey Street, one of the most exclusive shopping avenues in the area.

The boutique is divided into two spaces - the mezzanine level offers women Christian Louboutin's range of day wear and classic styles while the first floor is dedicated to evening wear.

Designed by London-based design consultancy Household, the store indulges a passion for shoes with unique displays and décor reflective of the world of the designer.

While clients are spoilt for choice among Christian Louboutin's shoe and handbag collections, they are also treated to the highest standard of assistance; hidden service niches and hatches throughout the store playfully connect front of house with back of house and ensure clients are the centre of attention at all times.

Drawing on Christian Louboutin's love for the Middle East aesthetic, designers have used customized chandeliers, printed cornices using Middle Eastern references, and bespoke, upholstered furniture pieces from the region to fill the boutique.

A gallery wall features an intimate collection of Christian's private photographs - friends, family and travels through the years give a unique insight into the world of Christian Louboutin.

"The Beirut launch is very significant because there's a very sophisticated Middle Eastern client who wants the very best in footwear for every occasion and they want it presented in a space that resonates with the new world that is fast emerging in the Middle East while staying true to their customs."

"The Beirut store is exciting as my clients have the chance to see my life up close and personal - the photos, the facets of the store and the collections have all been handpicked by me with the Lebanese client in mind."

says Christian Louboutin.

With the opening of the second store in the region in a joint venture with the Chalhoub Group, Christian Louboutin continues its expansion into the burgeoning luxury goods market of the Middle East which was initiated with the Jeddah boutique opening in February.

Openings in Dubai, UAE and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia are scheduled for 2010.