Monégasque luxury house, founded and made in Monaco
Founded in Monaco and named for 1297, the year the Grimaldi dynasty first took the Rock, Monoïkos 1297 has set out to do something ambitious from the get-go: to give the Principality a luxury language of its own. This luxury house creates limited-edition objets, crafted locally and rooted in the symbols, landscapes, and history of the place itself.
The work
Monoïkos 1297 is, at heart, a house of savoir-faire. Its collections span silk carrés, châles of cashmere and silk, ties, pochettes, parasols, beach linens, backgammon sets, jewellery, and table objects, each produced in limited series and finished to a standard that places them firmly in the world of luxury rather than the tourist boutique.
The pieces are designed by its founders, Leticia de Massy and Charlotte de Pariente, and realized with skilled artisans.
What distinguishes the house is how each object draws directly from Monaco’s own iconography. There are collections built around the lucky nails of Sainte-Dévote, the Principality’s patron saint, around the Monégasque flag and its lozenges, around the quarters of Monaco, its monuments, and its celebrated gardens: the Jardin Exotique, the Roseraie, the Jardin Japonais. Others honour the Grand Prix, from its legends to its track marshals and chequered flags.
Each piece is a small act of storytelling, carrying a fragment of Monaco’s identity into something one can wear, use, or keep.
Monaco connection
For Monoïkos 1297, Monaco is a muse. The house exists to translate the Principality’s heritage into objects worthy of it, and its entire creative vocabulary is drawn from Monégasque life: its history reaching back to 1297, its religious traditions, its gardens and monuments, its sporting legend. This is a house that could not exist anywhere else, because its subject is Monaco itself.
That rootedness extends to how the pieces are made. Monoïkos 1297 is built on an eco-responsible commitment, designed from the outset to minimize its environmental impact while honouring the social and ethical standards of its partners. Working with local artisans and producing in limited series is part of that philosophy: less waste, more meaning, and a deliberate investment in the craftsmanship of the region.
In conversation with Leticia de Massy and Charlotte de Pariente, founders of Monoïkos 1297
– How did you define what a true, authentic Monegasque luxury object should be when you first founded Monoïkos 1297?
Monoïkos 1297: From the very beginning, we chose to move away from an ostentatious vision of luxury and return to its true essence: rarity, integrity, and sincerity. An authentic Monegasque luxury object had to embody both the timeless elegance of the Principality and an uncompromising standard of craftsmanship.
We defined this vision of luxury as a harmonious balance between cultural heritage, refined discretion, and excellence in materials. Each creation was conceived to tell the story of Monaco, not only through its radiance and splendor but also through its heritage and history, while adhering to a rigorous eco-responsible charter.
– Can you walk us through the basic steps of how an idea becomes a finished product?
Monoïkos 1297: The process always begins with a story to be told. Even before the first drawing is made, there is a narrative intention: a fragment of memory, an inspiration rooted in Monaco, an emotion we wish to make tangible. This story becomes the guiding thread throughout the entire creative journey.
It then takes shape through initial sketches, where we seek to translate this idea into a coherent visual form. What follows is a process of refinement, involving constant back-and-forth to ensure that every element remains faithful to the original narrative.
Prototypes then allow us to fine-tune dimensions, textures, and nuances with precision. Every detail is carefully reviewed and validated. This deliberately exacting approach enables us to transform an idea into an object imbued with a true identity.
– How do you make sure your raw materials are both high quality and sustainable?
Monoïkos 1297: We work exclusively with carefully selected local partners who can demonstrate clear traceability and responsible practices, backed by certifications! Quality goes beyond appearance or touch: it encompasses origin, production conditions, and environmental impact.
We prioritize short supply chains and favor natural or recycled materials, while never compromising on excellence. This level of rigor requires time and can sometimes slow the development of certain products we would like to create. Still, it is essential in shaping a truly contemporary vision of luxury.
– What does the phrase “Made in Monaco” truly mean to you on a personal and professional level?
Monoïkos 1297: “Made in Monaco” is, above all, a responsibility. It is a way of showcasing a unique territory, rich in history and defined by high standards. It implies a level of irreproachable excellence, one that reflects a measured, intelligent, eco-conscious luxury, deeply rooted in its identity.
It is not merely a geographical indication; it is a signature, almost a promise.
– How has the local community supported you since you launched the brand?
Monoïkos 1297: From the very beginning, we experienced a form of recognition expressed through encouragement, support, and trust. Our exchanges and our partnerships with local stakeholders, whether artisans, institutions, or clients, have helped Monoïkos 1297 establish itself over time.
We have built genuine relationships and their support is invaluable.
– How does the vibrant natural landscape of the Mediterranean directly influence the color palettes you choose for your textiles?
Monoïkos 1297: The Mediterranean is an inexhaustible source of inspiration. Its shades are never static; they evolve with the hours, the seasons, and the shifting reflections of light.
Beyond colors, it is also a heritage that we seek to highlight and pass on.
– What does eco-responsibility mean to the Monoïkos 1297 brand?
Monoïkos 1297: We see it as a global, holistic approach, rather than a marketing pitch. It requires rethinking every stage of the process: design, production, and distribution.
We aim to produce less, but better. To prioritize durability and sustainability, and to create objects that are meant to endure over time.
– Is there a specific era or forgotten chapter of Monegasque history that you are eager to explore in future designs?
Monoïkos 1297: Monaco’s history is remarkably rich; every era has contributed to shaping the Principality’s unique identity and the depth of its heritage.
We have already explored several periods through our collections, each giving rise to creations conceived as wearable fragments of history. The Principality’s Christian roots are reflected in the collection dedicated to Sainte Dévote, the Patron Saint of Monaco, where the “Lucky Nail” delicately reinterprets a founding symbol.
The early 20th century comes to life in our collection dedicated to Prince Albert I of Monaco, whose visionary spirit and major contributions inspire creations that are both elegant and meaningful. The modern era is expressed through pieces that evoke Monaco’s heritage, notably in motorsport: the checkered flag, track marshals, and many other collections.
Credit: BSS Monaco / Monoïkos 1297
Monoïkos 1297 Top Three Monaco Things
Club des Boulistes: an unexpected side of the Principality. In the shade of the trees, in an almost timeless atmosphere, with a remarkable view.
Chemin des Pêcheurs / Plage des Pêcheurs / Fort Antoine: a discreet walkway suspended between rock and sea, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. A detour via Fort Antoine and the fishermen’s beach is a must.
Chapelle Sainte Dévote: a symbolic and soothing place, rich in history. A modest chapel set within an ultra-sophisticated environment.
Discover more of the artists and makers shaping the Principality’s cultural life in the Monaco Art Excellence Guide.
Discover Monoïkos 1297: monoikos1297.com · Instagram