Hong Kong-based retailer DFS Group is to open its first European store in Italy in 2016.

DFS says it will open a T Galleria boutique at Fondaco dei Tedeschi, a historic building in Venice. It has signed architect Jamie Fobert to design the interior of the 86,400 sqft boutique spread over four levels.

The first floor will house women’s apparel and accessories, second floor men’s apparel, watches and jewellery, third floor shoes and beauty and fragrances while the fourth floor will be intended for public events.

“Venice was the epicenter of trade in the world for 500 years, and we are now returning it to its original destination of commerce,” said Philippe Schaus, chairman and CEO of DFS.

DFS is owned by LVMH Group.