The Palatine - The Hidden Jewel Of The Central Valley

Originally Published on March 23nd, 2016 by N. Giordano

To kick off 2016, we were delighted to be featured in CV LUX - a West Coast magazine that began in our very own Central Valley - featuring all things Luxury.

For a hard copy of this month's issue, visit us at The Palatine!

As you drive down Freeway 41, the question is posed, "what's in that building?" Most think it's filled with doctors and accountant offices. 2004 marked the beginning of an era that was yet to come, The Palatine Building. The majestic and ornate structure, residing on North Fresno Street, opened its doors to local specialty professionals and a few prestigious boutiques.

The name, Palatine, originates from a hill in Rome where emperors used to build their homes. Later it was discovered that the name actually traced back to the Armenian roots of the Arzrouni, Jelladian & Gage families who own and manage it, ironically, making the name more poignant.

Designed, engineered and built by the family architect and contractors, the building is constructed of nothing but the finest materials, from copper roof embellishments to solid mahogany doors with slate and marble interiors. The structure itself is one of a kind and worthy of a visit for pure visual enjoyment.

As the years passed, the iconic building has evolved into the Central Valley's only Metropolitan Boutique shopping destination. Mainstay original tenants include Slates Restaurant and the family owned, Jewels Unlimited and RSVP Style.

All of these companies have undergone evolutionary changes as well. Slates Restaurant, has replaced its renown nightly fine diningwith Plates by Slates, a casual contemporary lunch cafe, available to enjoy while you shop at the Palatine. The original Slates experience is available only in their second floor dining rooms by reservation and private event only.

Family owned for over forty years, Jewels Unlimited has generationally been passed and grown into Gianni Fine Jewelers. Gianni boasts thefinest jewelry collections from renowned designers spanning the world. The true jewel that lives inside of this remarkable location.

RSVP began as a small invitation and gift boutique. After developing its place in the wedding industry as a fine stationer, their gift collections have continually grown over the last twelve years. In addition to fabulous gifts of stationery, candles, and designer frames, they have expanded their product mix into bridal and gift registry featuring collections of both casual and formal dinnerware, selections of serving pieces, decorative pieces for the home and accent furniture decor. From Versace to Michael Aram and stunning pieces from around the world, their exclusive collections are dazzling.

In 2010, RSVP Style expanded with Mary C. Papaleo, joining the management, expanding into floral and events. Stems at the Palatine Floral and Event Studio sprouted. Offering the Valley's premiere fresh floral services, Stems delivers six days a week. With over 28 yearsof full event design and coordination, Stems will make every celebration memorable and fabulous. Teaming with RSVP's design team, Stems will create phenomenal interior botanical designs and decorate all areas in your home or office. Together, these two stores will make your world beautiful.

The upper levels of the Palatine host two specialty physicians, Dr. Denard Fobbs, of Lifepoint Institute for Women and Dr. Aaron Draper, expert in NeuroSoma therapy. Alchemy Spa is located on Level Two as well. Walk into Fresno's elite pristine spa, relax in style and come out looking like a star.

Level Three is home to Alchemy Salon, mother studio to Alchemy Spa. The Valley's top stylists will dress your tresses while you sip spa water or tea, enjoying a view of the city scape. Alchemy offers the best of the best in hair care and body products. Browse in their mirrored showroom while you await your transformation.

The Palatine is a designer building that houses true designers. Predominantly woman owned and run companies, all strive to create a unique and luxurious atmosphere for all to indulge in. Whether you need to pop in to grab a quick gift, enjoy a glass of fine wine or find the perfect engagement ring, we are at your complete service . Words that echo through the lobby are "I never knew all of this was in here!"

Now you know what is in "that building." Herein lies the foundation for true California convenience and lifestyle. Standing in the foreground amidst the majestic Sierra Nevada's, this iconic building invites you and your curiosity to be enchanted and fulfilled.

The construction of The Palatine Building caught many eyes off of Fresno's main thoroughfare, Highway 41. After four years of construction, this architectural monument with notable Egyptian styling and a 9th Century Armenian name was finally complete.