Harrods' luxe upgrade plans include UK's first curved escalators
The famous Knightsbridge department store plans to introduce the technology in its lower-ground floors, reports The Telegraph newspaper which has seen planning documents to on bring the 'innovation to the UK'.
Echoing 'the sweeping staircases of Harrods' history' the aim is to create a 'grand and luxurious retail experience' emulating its original Edwardian sales rooms.
The proposal includes fluted marble columns, inspired by the draped fabric of Lady Britannia on the store's Brompton Road facade while the current ceiling will be replaced with a 1920s replica.
The overhaul will also include a deepening of the lower-ground and sub-basement levels to create a double-height hall, merging its fine watches and fine jewellery departments.
As well as the curved escalator, each brand based in Harrods' basement would also get its own eight-10-person lift for privacy and security, 'helping extremely high-net worth customers feel comfortable', the report says.
Harrods said in planning documents it needed to overhaul its store to 'remain relevant in an increasingly competitive luxury market' and set London 'on the map for hard luxury' goods.
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