Here’s what happened when we visited the Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop Up in Singapore and what to look out for.
In conjunction with the launch of the Louis Vuitton x Murakami re-edition collection globally on 3 January 2025, the Maison has installed one-of-a-kind pop-ups throughout the world. Joining activations in London, Milan, New York City, Seoul, Shanghai and Tokyo is Singapore, the only spot in Southeast Asia to host one featuring the pop-up. What makes the Singapore installation extra special is its venue. Running from now until 19 January, the pop-up is housed at 72 Joo Chiat Place; a UNESCO-recognised area.
We had the pleasure of visiting the Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop Up in Singapore and what an experience it was. Upon arrival, the first thing we saw was the Monogram Multicolore and the distinctive 3D Superflat Garden flowers on a Peranakan shophouse façade. Fusing with light blue and white hues, the colourful appearance has quickly become one of the most Instagrammable locations in town — and rightly so. After all, it’s an invitation into the realm of Louis Vuitton x Takashi Murakami; and a celebration of the 20th anniversary of the initial collection release.
As the glass doors detailed with Monogram Multicolore motifs open, enter into minimal yet vibrantly designed pop-up space. The Singapore outpost is created to reflect the modular hotels in Tokyo and hence, fuses French, Japanese and Singaporean elements with seamlessness. True to Louis Vuitton’s nature, this project also involved the inclusion of a host city’s cultural identity. Inside, there are not one but four unique zones where visitors can immerse themselves. They include Retail Space, Cinema, Care Station and Café.
Our journey began at the Retail Space — the first thing you will see inside the Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop Up. At the centre display table and shelves on the walls, the exquisite items in the newly released re-edition collection are showcased. Among them is the Singapore pop-up exclusive Superflat Panda Card Holder. We also spotted designs such as the LV Trainer Sneaker in Blanc with Monogram Multicolore motif, the Speedy Bandoulière 20 in Monogram canvas with Superflat Garden motifs, a black Superflat cap, the Superflat Silk Square 90 scarf, the black Marellini with removable Monogram Multicolore coin purse, a Washed Blue Alma BB with Panda charm and the LV x TM Malle Pyramide stackable trunks.
From perfumes and accessories to leather bags and small leather goods (and even a skateboard), the pop-up is the ideal place to get up close with the collection. With any purchase of the Louis Vuitton x Murakami ensemble, you will be given a token which can be used in the vending machine inside the pop-up. Visitors get to win either adorable stickers, trading cards or a Takashi Murakami Flower Go Walk portable game.
Next, we moved to the Cinema zone where the films of Takashi Murakami come alive. What better way to completely soak in the grandeur of the LV x Murakami world than sitting amongst Murakami’s distinguishable flower cushions and watching two films by the Japanese artist. The projects, ‘Superflat Monogram’ and ‘Superflat First Love’, were first unveiled in 2003 and 2009 respectively. In commemoration of the 2025 launch of the re-edition collection, Murakami’s films have been remastered.
In a relaxing environment, we watched as Aya and her friends Panda, Flower Hat Man and Onion Head went on an adventure down Monogram Multicolore land. All these began when her phone was swallowed by a Monogram flower-decorated Panda outside a Louis Vuitton store in the Omotesando district. In the follow-up film, we witnessed the continuation of Aya’s story as she was transported to Paris via the magic portal known as the Louis Vuitton trunk. It was in Paris where she met Gaston-Louis Vuitton.
After that, it’s time to head over to the Care Station — situated at a cozy corner of the pop-up and placed within a light blue space. The Care Station highlights the Maison’s dedication to preserving longevity of its products and sustainability. Bring your original Louis Vuitton x Murakami archival products to the dedicated zone to get them repaired and treated. Louis Vuitton artisans will be present on-site to assist you with services such as changing a snap button, metallic slider, leather slider, latch strap and chain; replacing a shoulder strap, removable strap and handle; canvas and metal cleaning; as well as paint care.
Many of these services are free with the exception of Paint Care and the replacement of shoulder straps, removable straps and handles. We had the opportunity to watch an artisan at work when we visited the pop-up and it was amazing to see the Maison’s dedication to details and quality. While you wait for your items to be cared for (most will be done on the spot with Paint Care requiring a minimum of one day), take the time to keep browsing or check out other zones in the Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop Up.
The Café, with pink walls and details (including light fixtures with Monogram Multicolore displays), is where you can go to unwind over refreshing beverages. In a specially designed biodegradable Louis Vuitton x Murakami Superflat Panda cup, enjoy drinks such as lemonade or coffee latte. You will also receive a free cookie in the shape of a Superflat Garden smiley flower by purchasing any drink. The space is also picture perfect for all your #OOTD shots and a serene place to relax.
In addition to the Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop Up at Joo Chiat, you can also visit the Louis Vuitton Island Maison at Marina Bay Sands. Here, you will also be able to check out the 2025 Louis Vuitton x Murakami collection as well as experience in-store activations and special window displays. Following Drop One, fashion enthusiasts can look forward to Drop Two featuring Murakami’s Cherry Blossom pattern and a yet-to-be-announced third chapter. The re-edition collection introduces the collaboration once again two decades of it was first launched and includes the Murakami treatment on the Maison’s newer items such as the CarryAll and the OnTheGo.
So, if you are in Singapore or will be at the Lion City from now until 19 January 2025, make sure to add the Louis Vuitton x Murakami Pop Up to your itinerary. Now only can you see the vivid designs yourself but you will also be able to visit the Joo Chiat area and take in its heritage and charm.
Learn more about the Louis Vuitton x Murakami re-edition collection HERE.
(Photos by Louis Vuitton)
