Escada, London
This year we’ve been spoilt for choice with
so many highly creative new retail stores
opening across the UK on our high streets
and in our shopping centres. Back in
sophisticated Sloane Square a high end
retailer that prides itself on offering top
quality in fabrics, fit and workmanship to
the modern woman, piqued our interest.
Lying at the bottom of Sloane Street and
below a residential newbuild, an utterly
gorgeous fashion boutique has recently
launched - this is not for the faint hearted
for the price tag is significantly high.
Escada has created a luxurious interior
fitout for even the finest A-list celebrity.
The store with its double height, full
glass front that allows views throughout
its entirety and the daylight to permeate
through to its very core, is sensational. The
fixtures and fittings are equally opulent and
pay homage to the stylish clothing. There
is ample space within this chic boutique to
admire the collection and peruse - this is
a non pressurised store where staff is
on hand but not pushy and you are free
to roam.
From the outside, the store is virtually
transparent through the all glass store front.
Mannequins decorate the windows and are
positioned around the store, otherwise this
is a clean and uncluttered environment.
Everything is on a grand scale adding to the sumptuous feel; from the store’s gargantuan height to the shopfittings, mirrors and shelving which all extend from floor to ceiling. Gold, tubular fixtures rise up to the ceiling from the hanging rails and shelving below. Towards the back of the store an oversized, wardrobe style, floor to ceiling shelving unit displays handbags, shoes and accessories and creates a dramatic backdrop.
Clothes rails are minimalist, using a
curved, gold tubular bar that creates an
eye catching installation around the entire
perimeter. Glass showcases edged with
gold display folded merchandise and
continue the theme. Low display tables
loaded with vases of flowers create a floral
spectacle in complimentary colours within
this elegant store. Seating is provided
amidst the display tables and counters
where you can sit and ponder, or to try on a
pair of shoes.
Natural wood parquet flooring sets off the
otherwise minimal white walls and ceiling.
A gold leaf design adds a delicate, textural
detail to the walls enhancing the gold of
the clothes rails and counters. A row of
elegant contemporary pendants hang from
the ceiling, and concealed trough lighting is
used throughout the space in keeping with
the simple clean lines.
The store is treated in the same respect
as the clothes: cut and finished to a very
high spec. rpa:group has created a visual
paradise within this 1,463 square foot
space. The designers worked with Escada
to provide detailed design drawings and
specification. The result is a formidable
flagship for this premium retailer.