MDM Props, a leader in art manufacturing, scenic constriction, model making and large and small scale prop-making, teamed up with established luxury brands Dior and Harrods this festive season to create a winter wonderland-themed scene at the legendary London department store.
The store was converted into a sparkling array of lights for the Fabulous World of Dior, with two unique multi-experience pop-ups for the exhibition area. For the first time in the department store’s history, each of these iconic exhibits has been transformed into a miniature theatre of wonder, making the display a destination for Londoners and tourists alike.
Teamwork brings the concept to life
The spectacular presentation, which took over 44 of Harrods’ renowned window displays, showcased Dior’s iconic beauty, fashion, and homewares in a gingerbread-house-themed display packed with decor inspired by Christmas fairy tales and stories, tying in with immersive pop-up boutiques lit up in a glowing show for the takeover.
Embracing the client’s brief to create an immersive and playful experience in the heart of the British department store, MDM Props’ specialist team of artists, creatives and visionaries unveiled an exhibition that reproduced the architecture of Dior’s emblematic locations
The MDM Props team created Christmas decorations for 27 internal windows, 36 external frames, a full upper facade, a bistro, an entrance, and an internal lobby for the Christian Dior and Harrods festive takeover in the space of three months.
There was a close relationship between MDM and the client throughout the whole development, as the team followed the concept provided. The firm then worked closely with the client onsite to install and finish the projects after planning and creation at their workshop, also based in the capital.
A new definition of window shopping
From the animated window displays to the exhibition to the café, each facet of this exclusive experience called for elaborate designs of the highest specification. Revisiting the tradition of gingerbread houses, the display was entirely composed of delicate cookies and paid tribute to Monsieur Dior‘s legacy. It included a scale model of the original Miss Dior dress and a quintessential Dior perfume bottle.
Like stepping into a fantasy world, no detail was overlooked in creating a retreat of decadence in the heart of the iconic department store. From the glittering façade and window displays to a replica Dior village and pop-up store, visitors could explore elements from each of the House’s universes, including exclusively reenvisioned icons made especially for the event.
The development work done with MDM served as a reference for different teams to pursue the production and development of the exhibition and other areas. Every detail was designed to be coherent with the artistic vocabulary created by MDM in the window displays. MDM’s close collaboration with the client allowed for the whole takeover and for all teams working on the project.
International projects
MDM Props collaborates with clients from all over the world to create attractions, exhibitions, artworks, and events in a variety of materials to the highest standards. Using their three decades of experience, they work with each client to understand their creative vision, allowing their skilled team to meet the specific needs of each project.
Visitors were able to experience the exclusive celebration of Dior with luminous installations, window displays and interactive activities until 3 January 2023.
MDM Props is a London-based company, sharing a vast workshop area with sister businesses MDM Create and Sugar Studios.
Headline photo: Adrien Dirand
