Neri&Hu Design and Research Office has recently revealed two flagship stores in Shanghai‘s Panlong Tiandi development for fashion brand Jisifang and its sister brand, Woven Moonlight. These adjacent retail spaces offer a unique design dialogue, each tailored to reflect the individual identity of the respective brand while also sharing a common connection to nature.
The Jisifang boutique draws inspiration from the concept of the ‘Primitive Hut’ introduced by 18th-century architectural philosopher Marc-Antoine Laugier. This concept is widely regarded as the fundamental archetype of all architecture. As a result, the boutique’s design focuses on creating a stripped-down space that emphasizes the essence of shelter and a strong connection to the natural world. This design approach aligns perfectly with Jisifang’s emphasis on linen, a material that symbolizes the bridge between everyday life and nature.
At the core of the Jisifang boutique in Shanghai, Neri&Hu has designed a wooden structure that defines a serene space for customers to immerse themselves in the brand’s products. The interiors of the boutique adopt a minimalist approach, devoid of any unnecessary embellishments. The use of natural white oak with exposed grain and warm ceramic tiles creates a backdrop that complements the textures of the linen garments. Additionally, a high, sloping roof maximizes the volume of the space, while filtered light and framed views of the street outside establish a gentle connection to the urban environment. The architects explain that “the inserted wooden structure not only forms a spiritual space for dwelling and inhabiting but also serves as a functional element for product display.”
In contrast, the space dedicated to Woven Moonlight takes a different approach, as Neri&Hu envisions a cave-like experience. Textured concrete walls enclose the main display area, with niches carved out to showcase the garments. These niches are adorned with translucent linen curtains and accentuated by custom-built walnut cabinetry. This design choice creates a striking contrast between the roughness of the concrete, the softness of the textiles, and the warmth of the wood.
Overall, Neri&Hu has successfully created two flagship stores that not only reflect the unique identities of Jisifang and Woven Moonlight but also establish a strong connection to nature. Through their thoughtful design choices, the architects have crafted spaces that provide customers with distinct and immersive experiences, while also showcasing the brands’ products in an aesthetically pleasing manner.
The Jisifang and Woven Moonlight stores in Shanghai offer visitors a unique experience with their distinct architectural designs. The Jisifang boutique showcases a beautiful timber structure, while the Woven Moonlight store boasts a double-pitched sloped ceiling adorned with skylights. These design elements allow natural light to flood the space, creating a serene ambiance that brings the garments on display to life. This interplay of light and shadow not only enhances the connection to nature but also highlights the harmony between the built environment and the natural world.
Neri&Hu, the design team behind these projects, aims to explore the concept of a primal human space, a return to our fundamental state of being. By incorporating natural textures like linen into the store interiors, they hope to provide visitors with an opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the urban environment and reconnect with nature. These stores serve as tranquil sanctuaries where visitors can immerse themselves in a serene atmosphere and experience a sense of harmony with the natural world.