This retail unit is approximately 2500sq.ft. Located in Chelsea Market, New York City. Our design brief in collaboration with the architect was to produce a flagship store that would have an impact on the environment, to cause a global change.
The brief therefore demanded that associated environmental considerations such as ecologically sound materials and sustainable manufacture and installation were ensured to produce both a beautiful space and to reinforce the nature of the products sold.
In the last decade we all have started to see an increased emphasis on the wellbeing of our natural environment. The design was created to be a conducive space to discerning tea consumers and those who are shopping to support their desire to have a healthy lifestyle.
Challenges faced
This was the ultimate, environmentally sustainable task. Every detail was created from original bespoke designs and all materials, including the take away cartons and packaging were manufactured from recycled or sustainable materials.
As a consultancy with our main design studio based in the UK this project was also a fine example of how internet technology could enable ‘design at a distance’ to work successfully. Online video conferencing and file sharing closed the gap between New York and Liverpool to deliver the highest quality design and build on time and to budget.
The success of this scheme has already prompted a second eco friendly sustainable store in Los Angeles. We’ll show you more when the project is underway.
New ideas or strategies
Many of the innovations used in this scheme were the result of scrupulous attention to sustainability proving that environmentally sound materials and methods can be used to create beautiful and functional interiors without breaking the bank.
Counters and worktops were created from smooth cement dyed with green tea. The flooring is a combination of porcelain tiles and bamboo. Eco resin was chosen for display panels and lighting shades created from re-used tea bags by artist Eveline Feldman featuring low energy electrical fittings and elements by 3Form.