Founded in 1994 by Prosper and Martine Assouline, Assouline has evolved into one of the most iconic and influential luxury publishers in the world. Renowned for its exquisite coffee table books that blend art, culture, and lifestyle, Assouline has set a gold standard for luxury publishing. Its beautifully crafted books serve as not just reading material but as decorative objects that enhance spaces, turning the pages of history, fashion, and art into collectible masterpieces.
The Beginnings: A Vision of Elegance
The origins of Assouline are rooted in the Assoulines’ passion for design, art, and culture. Prosper, a former art director in the fashion industry, and Martine, a former model and fashion editor, shared a vision of creating books that were not just repositories of information but also objects of beauty. Their first publication, “La Colombe d’Or,” was a tribute to one of the most iconic hotels on the French Riviera. It was an instant success, setting the tone for the elegant, image-heavy style that would define Assouline’s identity.
From the outset, Assouline books were distinguished by their high production values: the finest papers, eye-catching cover designs, and striking photography. The couple’s deep appreciation for the artistic process translated into books that were as much a pleasure to touch and hold as they were to read. This unique approach distinguished Assouline from traditional publishers and quickly captured the attention of discerning readers worldwide.
Building a Brand: The Luxury of Knowledge
Assouline’s catalog spans a wide array of topics, including art, architecture, design, fashion, gastronomy, and travel. The common thread is a focus on the beautiful, the rare, and the aspirational. With titles like “The Impossible Collection” series, which curates the most iconic moments and objects in various fields, Assouline has positioned itself as a brand synonymous with luxury and refined taste.
The publisher’s meticulous attention to detail is evident in every aspect of its books, from the richly colored spines to the lush photography that graces each page. Assouline books are designed to be displayed proudly, adding a touch of sophistication to any room. This blend of content and form has allowed Assouline to occupy a unique niche where publishing meets interior design.
The Maison Assouline: A Physical Manifestation of the Brand
In 2014, Assouline took its brand to the next level with the opening of Maison Assouline in London. Located in a stunning Grade II listed building in Piccadilly, this flagship store is more than a bookstore; it is a cultural destination. Maison Assouline serves as a library, gallery, and bar, offering visitors a place to immerse themselves in the world of Assouline while enjoying a curated selection of rare books, luxury gifts, and vintage accessories.
The space was designed to reflect the Assoulines’ love of travel, culture, and style. Each corner of Maison Assouline tells a story, from the towering bookshelves filled with limited editions to the elegant Salon where patrons can sip coffee surrounded by art and design books. The concept of Maison Assouline perfectly encapsulates the publisher’s philosophy: that books are a luxury to be experienced with all the senses.
Collaborations and Iconic Titles: Expanding the Assouline Universe
Over the years, Assouline has collaborated with some of the world’s most prestigious brands, designers, and artists, creating bespoke titles that celebrate luxury and heritage. Collaborations with brands like Dior, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton have resulted in books that not only chronicle the history of these maisons but also capture the essence of their unique styles. These partnerships have allowed Assouline to expand its reach and influence within the world of fashion and design.
One of Assouline’s most celebrated series is “The Ultimate Collection,” which features oversized books encased in luxurious clamshell cases. Each title in this collection is a deep dive into a particular subject, whether it’s vintage cars, iconic fashion pieces, or historic travel destinations. These books are more than just reading material; they are collector’s items that represent the pinnacle of Assouline’s craftsmanship.
A Legacy of Passion and Craftsmanship
At the heart of Assouline’s success is the couple’s unwavering commitment to quality and a passion for storytelling. The Assoulines have always believed that a well-made book can transport readers to another world, and this belief is evident in every title they publish. Their books are not mass-produced; each is crafted with the same care and attention to detail that one might expect from a piece of art or luxury fashion item.
The company continues to innovate, finding new ways to make books relevant in the digital age. While many publishers have shifted focus toward e-books and online content, Assouline has doubled down on the tactile experience of a beautifully made book. The publisher’s recent ventures into book-centric design objects, such as the “Ultimate Library” concept, offer bespoke curation of book collections that transform spaces into personalized, literary-inspired environments.
The Future of Assouline: A Continued Celebration of Culture
As Assouline looks to the future, it remains dedicated to its founding principles of elegance, luxury, and cultural celebration. With new titles constantly being added to its repertoire, Assouline continues to inspire readers, collectors, and designers around the world. The company’s commitment to elevating the art of bookmaking ensures that Assouline will remain at the forefront of luxury publishing for years to come, creating books that are not just read, but treasured.
In a world increasingly dominated by digital media, Assouline stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the printed page. For Prosper and Martine Assouline, their work is not just about books; it’s about creating experiences that resonate with the spirit of beauty and the joy of discovery.
