The latest Van Clef & Arpels boutique in Paris’ Place Vendome constitutes a witty wink at the grandeur of France’s ancient regime. In the firm Jouin Manku’s hands, wrought-iron latticework and hand-carved boiserie meets CNC-milled limestone and engineered solid surfaces. The color palette–white, cream, beige, gray, brown, and gold–is used in unexpected ways, such as plaster walls that resemble linen and a laminated plastic table top that resembles lacquered wood.

A jewelry salon’s ceiling panel in molded plaster surrounds a gilded recess. The long, lacquer-like table is actually a plastic laminate that resists smudges and dings. A long and lovely gray rug anchors the table and makes the room feel somehow lighter.