The New Hemmerle Space in Munich
- Chloe Harrison
- Oct 20
- 3 min read
Addresses the Timeless Question: In What Manner Does a Sofa Resemble an Earring?
Upon arriving at 14 Maximilianstrasse, Munich, one observes a depiction of a street scene accompanied by a sign. “Hemmerle,” it states, “is advancing.” It is located a few streets down and then uphill. After 120 years, the jewelry remains wholly within the family, but at a different location. The space features elevated ceilings, expansive windows, and a corner balcony overlooking Maximilian II’s street. It provides a more private experience (although accessible to the public, appointments are advisable) in a sanctuary that exemplifies how tradition is optimally preserved through selective experimentation.
The Hemmerle family showcased their collection of European furniture and art, with mid-20th century Scandinavian chairs and bespoke contemporary artworks, in their new venue. Their current location, a brief distance along the avenue, is situated at Maximilianstrasse 30 in Munich. The doors of a safe from the jeweler's previous establishment have been transformed into a clandestine bar, featuring Hemmerle silverware.
When possessing a new piece from this four-generation family, crafted in aluminum or bronze and finished with an ancient artifact, one can characterize it as the Hemmerle manner. However, let us return to our original question. “The space has been crafted in a manner akin to the creation of a jewel in our workshop,” state Christian and Yasmin Hemmerle. Here are four similarities between a Vladimir Kagan sofa and a Hemmerle Harmony bracelet.
Contemporary Existence
A Hemmerle creation is instantly identifiable, its striking geometry perpetually apparent. The open-ended Harmony bracelet, the rectangular-set old mine-cut diamond, the table by French designer Pierre Chapo, the dining chairs by Poul Kjaerholm, the 1960s Serpentine sofa by Vladimir Kagan, and the wooden seats by José Zanine Caldas all exemplify this aesthetic.
Evaluated Materials
The Hemmerles state, “Every material utilized, from the singular travertine slab to the repurposed antique safe doors from our former location, as well as the design elements and furniture, embodies our philosophy and the Hemmerle experience.” A limited selection of 15 to 20 pieces is exhibited at any given moment. Their wood, bronze, natural pearls, and rare old-mine diamonds articulate the architectural vernacular, harmonizing with the bronze double doors at the entrance, the oak herringbone flooring, and the travertine fireplace. “In every room, the jewels are displayed discreetly within a space that incorporates design elements, immersing the visitor in our world and creativity.”
Duration
“Our new residence facilitates discussions in a serene and inviting environment that is, in itself, a quintessential Hemmerle gem,” they state. The jewels offered to each client are meticulously selected following consultations conducted in an environment reminiscent of an idyllic abode. The Hemmerles state, "The space has been meticulously crafted through a deliberate and thorough process that embodies our philosophy." This procedure also emulates the creation of a gemstone. Adjacent to this property is the workshop where each item is meticulously handcrafted by artists with stones and materials specifically tailored for Hemmerle. What is the timeline? Regardless of the duration required to achieve precise accuracy. Time holds significance in Hemmerle, both in the context of the house's historical legacy and in its approach to various matters. All matters are subjective.
Astonishment!
Curiosity constitutes another hallmark of Hemmerle. “Wait, what is that?” is a common and appreciated inquiry from anyone examining one of their works. The responses encompass antique Egyptian faience, genuine Roman cameo, and coral salvaged from a shipwreck. The new space features similarly captivating items: a radiant chair by Tom Dixon, a painting by Piero Manzoni, and a Brazilian wood coffee table by Hugo França.
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