Six months after Shein's arrival, the BHV Marais is already gearing up for a makeover. According to information reported by Le Figaro, cited by Actu Paris, Frédéric Merlin, owner of the department store, has recently unveiled an ambitious plan to "write a new chapter in the commercial story" and reimagine the shopping experience at this iconic site first opened in 1856.
The first major change involves the store's size: it will shrink from 45,000 square meters to around 25,000 square meters, accompanied by a comprehensive reorganization of departments. On the ground floor, jewelry, leather goods, and cosmetics will give way to a bookstore, gift shop, and stationery section—reminding visitors of the BHV’s historic core. Down in the basement, DIY areas will be reduced to make space for a 1,000-square-meter food hall and a 300-square-meter pharmacy.
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Women’s and men’s fashion would be concentrated on the first floor, while the second, third, and fourth floors would be entirely dedicated to the home universe: furniture, decor, tableware, and culinary arts. This plan is based on Actu Paris, according to an interview with the Figaro.
Meanwhile, Frédéric Merlin is considering opening restaurants or a gym. A hotel development is off the table due to the Marais preservation plan, but the possibility of creating new apartments remains open.
And you, how would you envision the BHV of tomorrow?
