Unconventional and Abstract: Bananain Concept Store in Beijing by Some Thoughts.

Spatial design and research office Some Thoughts has continued their collaboration with apparel brand Bananain, designing its first concept store in Beijing. Situated in the west of Sanlitun, the space seeks to capture the diverse cultural background and commercial heritage of the city’s hustle and bustle—and notoriously complex network of alleyways.

A circular bridge spans across the two-story building, establishing an architectural link between levels. Utilised to overcome physical obstacles, the bridge is also a creative way to breathe new spatial circulation into the store’s existing rigid and monolithic concrete columns. “When spatial movement is no longer limited or conventional, the interaction between the individual and the interior also becomes more active and autonomous,” elaborates Some Thoughts founder, Jingze Li.

Dikka Bakery in Shanghai by Some Thoughts.

We can already smell the aroma of fresh bread just by looking at this bakery in Shanghai—a pastry store that includes colour themes that incorporate comforting brown tones evocative of a freshly baked loaf.

Incorporating architectural elements, the retro-futuristic and industrial feel of the interior intentionally contrasts with Bananain’s bright basics, offering clean visual lines for the product to pop against.

An abstract set of geometric characters is achieved by exploring unconventional materials proposed by tailor-made industrial-inspired fixtures and finishes. In the end, Jingze and his team went with metal pipes, which are the ideal materials for re-processing and perfectly matched the requirements for the curved lines or corners after heating. Industrial, yes, but never cold, Bananain’s Beijing concept store feels like a world unto its own.

Out-Of-This-World: KIKS Sanlitun Store by ROOI Design & Research.

ROOI Design & Research take us to another universe of retail where the infinite intergalactic world and fashion metaphorically collide. Taking cues from the majestic planets of the Solar System...

[Images courtesy of Some Thoughts.]