Designed by AIM Architecture, the new ZARA store becomes an extension of the populous Chinese city and creates a dialogue with its surrounding. With a singular futuristic form and contemporary façade, that includes a large cantilever canopy, the building connects the store with the city through the re-designed streetscape that engages with passersby.

Leads on the project – AIM Architecture Principals, Wendy Saunders and Vincent de Graaf – and their team have conceived more than simply a retail outlet for ZARA; they have designed a multi-layered journey that blurs the boundaries between retail, public space and cultural engagement.

While the exterior is striking, to say the least, the 321-square-metre interior offers outstanding facility along with even more delightful creative surprises. Entry is through the red brick mountain-like staircase which extends outward to connect the store with the street. This inclusion also pays homage to the cultural fabric of Nanjing referencing the many grand historic landmarks but it also becomes a place of gathering with seating and product display.

Within this area is a double-height plaza that anchors the space and acts as a platform for artistic collaborations, brand storytelling and cultural activations – along with ZARA’s first instore café, Zacaffè.

As with all AIM Architecture projects there is a design twist on the ubiquitous and ZARA Nanjing is no exception. Referencing the brand’s efficiency, the architects have installed an automated clothing transportation system that can be viewed through a glazed wall. While the mechanisation supplies the unexpected to the shopping experience, it also affords the opportunity to better serve customers, freeing up staff to deliver personal assistance.

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Throughout the project, materiality plays a crucial role in both shaping the sensory experience and evolving Zara’s brand identity. Exposed structural columns, polished concrete floors, stainless steel detailing, ultra clear glass and a concrete cassette ceiling establish a bold interior design direction. Including brick, solid timber and natural stone adds tactility and warmth and also creates a more personal environment.

On the ground floor is a new introduction to the flagship store that is ZARA Salon, a layered and highly personalised shopping journey for those seeking a more curated and Individual approach. In contrast, the upper level embraces a youthful energy with disparate material combinations shaping a dynamic yet refined aesthetic.

Technology and digital engagement further elevate the customer journey, with a bookable, professional-grade photo booth called Zara Fit Check offering an interactive, high-quality digital experience. AIM Architecture worked with Barcelona-based creative studio, Bagel Affairs, who contributed its digital expertise that included the interactive, camera-enabled live-streaming feature in the fitting rooms. By merging physical and virtual retail spaces, the design of the store positions itself at the forefront of next-generation retail engagement.

AIM Architecture was responsible for not only for the façade and interior design of this ZARA flagship store but all fittings and fixtures, signage design as well as landscaping to ensure a total design vision was realised.

It’s an amazing project that extends the ZARA brand and provides a new retail narrative for customers. AIM Architecture has once again created an exciting and unexpected environment for shopping that shows why in-person retailing is on the rise. Architecture supports the human experience and, in the case of this Zara flagship store, increases the enjoyment while it establishes community. Oh, and it’s simply a fabulous place that is out of this world to experience while you shop.

Wendy Saunders is a member of the 2026 INDE.Awards jury.

AIM Architecture
aim-architecture.com

Photography
Seth Powers