Heritage meets innovation – bringing Nespresso’s first coffee concept store to life in the heart of Paris.

Delivering Nespresso’s inaugural coffee concept store required precision and adaptability. The project involved transforming space within a listed building – the Hôtel des Ambassadeurs de Hollande – while protecting original stonework and timber beams. Due to heritage restrictions, ceiling works were prohibited, prompting the creation of innovative solutions including a heated and chilled floor system for HVAC, and fireproof passage boxes to route electrical cabling safely through the structure.

When the existing MEP and electrical design proved unfeasible, Agilité collaborated with the supply chain to re-engineer systems, ensuring compliance and functionality without compromising the building’s integrity. Additional design coordination was undertaken for flooring, ceilings, lighting, plumbing, and acoustic treatments.

Working closely with the client’s Italian fit-out team, designers, and local subcontractors, Agilité maintained alignment across complex cultural, linguistic, and technical interfaces. The team managed and coordinated all trades to integrate specialist joinery, bar and kitchen services, and the mirrored ceiling tunnel connecting the concept store and VIP area – all within tight timelines.

Value engineering and proactive problem-solving were central to delivery. When city power was unavailable, Agilité’s electrical partner, Ineo, provided a temporary feed from the adjacent hotel to maintain programme continuity. The team also adapted to multiple late-stage design changes – including a high-spec lacquered ceiling finish and bespoke patterned flooring – ensuring all modifications were implemented on time.

With a multinational client team and multiple suppliers, communication was key. Agilité established daily contact with the client’s representatives, used Procore to track progress, and maintained weekly Holobuilder updates. On-site coordination meetings enabled rapid resolution of and challenges, while direct communication with Italian contractors supported the alignment of pre-manufactured components such as marble counters and kitchen joinery.

The project was delivered on schedule, ready for the client’s Italian fit-out team to install final elements from October 1. The completed Maison Nespresso combines technical innovation with craftsmanship – from its bespoke poured concrete floors and integrated lighting systems to the adaptable “Salon des Amis” VIP area with hidden voids, art rails, and modular shelving.

Even the temporary ceiling was designed to be structurally robust yet easily removable for future upgrades – reflecting Agilité’s forward-thinking approach to phased delivery in live retail environments.