A VISION OF EXCELLENCE
LAINGS UNVEILS EXQUISITE NEW FLAGSHIP STORE
Characterised by high ceilings, intricate cornicing, and antique elegance, the charm of Victorian buildings endures across generations. Home to perhaps the most extravagant is Glasgow. The city’s sandstone emporiums, landmarks in themselves, have become integral to the character of the streets, reminding passers-by of bygone glamour and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines the city.
Dubbed the Style Mile, Buchanan Street is at the heart of Glasgow’s shopping scene and is now becoming home to Scotland’s oldest family-run jeweller, Laings. The exceptional Category-B listed building, Rowan House, has been transformed, with the prestigious jeweller now inhabiting all five floors. Erected in 1830, only ten years before Laings began, the storefront has been home to a button producer, men’s tailoring company and fashion retailers.
Now in its sixth generation, Laings has long been considered an icon of industry in Glasgow, renowned for its exquisite hand-crafted jewellery creations and recognised for its impressive brand portfolio containing some of the most exceptional luxury watch designers. Contributing to the landscape of Glasgow since 1840, Laings founding father, James Laing, worked tirelessly to found the family business, providing Clydebuilt vessels with timepieces and precision instruments. However, it was in 1971, under the guide of present president, Stuart Laing OBE, that the business made one of its most significant moves, opening a new showroom in the legendary Argyll Arcade. After over 50 years of celebrating clients’ most precious moments and adorning Glasgow in some of the finest wears, the store’s relocation to Buchannan Street will be a monumental new step for the business.
Under the stewardship of Joe Walsh, CEO and husband of sixth-generation owner Wendy Laing, the business will be taken to new heights. Joe’s love for the business is undeniable. Reflecting on the closure of the Argyll Arcade store, the loving sentiment in his words is clear:
“The Argyll Arcade holds many memories for Laings, and it is bittersweet to close our doors here. The arcade provides a stroll through luxury, connecting Buchanan Street and Argyle Street, two of our city’s prime retail areas. We can only hope the success we have experienced here will be inherited by the space’s next inhabitants.”
Whilst, indeed, it will be bittersweet to see such a longstanding fixture of Argyll Arcade close its doors, the new Rowan House location is a remarkable addition to the city’s retail landscape. Laings’ flagship showroom is acting as a centrepiece for the business. Adding a contemporary sparkle to the Victorian architecture, the showroom retains cherished original features of the building including the eye-catching full-height feature window. The heritage of the family is celebrated in a detailed history wall which adorns the back of the shop, showing some of the family and the business’s greatest milestones.
Amongst glittering cabinets of jewellery, the warmth of the family is still very much present in every corner of the building. From the moment you walk through the grand entryway, you are enthralled in a glistening world of luxury, wrapped in the embrace of this enduring family’s heritage. Clients will feel just as at home in the grand new store as they have for over fifty years in Argyll Arcade. The love poured into this endeavour is undeniable, the expertise and history of the brand echoing through each room. Managing Director, Stuart McDowell, beams with pride as he discusses the new store:
“With innovation characterising every step of this journey, we have reimagined the customer experience. It is key to all here at Laings that we ensure traditional jewellery and watch craftsmanship is maintained for years to come. Along with the opening of our state-of-the-art service centre in 2023, Rowan House has become a hub for the future of jewellery innovation.”
In an era where challenges abound and mass production dominates, it is a true delight to witness a family-owned business thriving. The meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design that Laings infuses into its jewellery creations are unmistakably evident, showcasing its dedication and passion for excellence. Indulge yourself in the world of Laings and experience the offerings of the delightful new showroom.
Explore jewellery excellence at Laings flagship store today.
Rowan House
70 Buchanan Street
Glasgow
G1 3JE
www.laingsuk.com
