Recession? Depression? The world's luxury brands don't seem to be bothered by such dismal economic predictions.
Workmen who will probably never have cause to go to the site once construction is finished are currently rushing to complete the latest Louis Vuitton store that is due to open in Singapore this month.
Marina Bay Sands will be the home of what is being called the Louis Vuitton Island Maison - their first in Southeast Asia and 12th Louis Vuitton Maison in the world. The glass-encased building will sit directly on water, reflecting the water's changing luminescence throughout the day. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bay provide a 360-degree view of the bay.
The store will house four separate stores, a private VIP lounge and an art gallery tunnel of contemporary works leading to the Louis Vuitton book store, which will sell a specially curated range of design, cultural and art books.
From there, the tunnel leads to and from the Marina Bay Sands Mall.
Artists' impressions show an impressive angular building that leans towards the water. The building and the nautically inspired interior have been designed by internationally acclaimed architect Peter Marino.
The ground floor of the island will showcase the men's and women's leather goods, ready to wear, shoes and accessories while the mezzanine level will house the brand's initial commodity - luggage and accessories in the first Travel Room in Asia Pacific.
The outdoor loggia, which will encourage customers to relax and enjoy the maritime setting, is designed to imitate the deck of a luxury yacht.
A spiral staircase on the same floor will lead visitors up to a magnified space which will display timepieces, fine jewellery and leather handbags.
The ostentatious store, a haven of conspicuous consumption, will be launched on September 18.
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