The French independent store LOULOU has created a fresh high-end space with attention paid to every detail – a space to present some of the world’s most prestigious collections of eyewear. Eyestylist.com spoke to Michael Lalande, Loulou’s founder about setting up shop in 2017, and his latest project in rue Gasparin.
“I first opened LOULOU in 2017 in the very heart of Lyon, on Place des Célestins, facing the theatre of the same name — a charming square with a village feel, slightly removed from the city’s main bustle,” Michael told Eyestylist, in conversation. “As the store quickly became too small, I began looking for a new space nearby. I explored several options and even considered taking over a colleague’s shop. But when I learned that the footwear brand FEELANCE was leaving its beautiful location, I knew immediately that it was the right place. Its exceptional visibility, with 5-metre-high windows, was simply irresistible.”
Today this location on rue Gasparin has been redesigned and presented in a new way, with a striking shop front and contemporary interior, by architecture studio, Johany Sapet. Lalande wanted a minimalist aesthetic with metallic features and exposed stone walls. Upstairs the store has a tranquil lounge-like space where the eye exams take place.
“For the first LOULOU, I wanted a dark, elegant atmosphere with brass and marble accents. The long, narrow shape of the space had led us to turn that constraint into a defining feature, with a visual path that drew customers toward the back — a design many fellow opticians later took inspiration from. This time, I wanted something completely different.” Above: the exposed brick wall is a feature of the new interior design at Loulou Opticiens
“My aim is to offer a high-end yet relaxed client experience, inspired by luxury hospitality — where nothing is ever a problem,” says Michael enthusiastically. “I like to shift the focus of buying eyewear away from the medical aspect, and toward the pleasure of a beautiful object. We pay close attention to sensory details — sound, scent, light — leaving nothing to chance.”
“When I opened Loulou,” says Michael, “I wanted to bring something new to Lyon’s already rich landscape of independent boutiques. I was the first to carry Ahlem in the region and have kept that spirit of discovery ever since, trusting young brands that inspire us. I’m proud to have been the first optician in Europe to offer Lapima. My latest crush is Paloceras, a very innovative new label. To connect with the creative community, I’ve often hosted art exhibitions and events in the store — even transforming it once into a bright red pop-up for LPLR.”
Among the new details, several particular features stand out from the striking black seats to the artistic references and minimal furniture. The frame display has been produced from repurposed parking ventilation grids. “We created unique metal panels to support the slim metallic shelves.” The effect is both industrial and refined.
Loulou Opticiens is run by Michael Lalande, and a team of three, opticians Marie Burton and Juliette Valero, and Diego, the miniature dachsund and store mascot! The inauguration of the renovated store took place on 27th November 2025. Find out more about the store and their selection of independent eyewear brands at www.loulouopticiens.fr
14 rue Gasparin 69002 Lyon – France