In Chengdu, China, the new concept store for hug x UMA WANG is a show-stopping design that is both theatrical and thought-provoking. Reflecting the style of uber Chinese fashion designer, Uma Wang, the creators of this retail haven, is ATMOSPHERE Architects with Lead, Tommy Yu, who have boldly encapsulated the brand with a stunning result.

Spread over two levels, the floorplate of 485 square metres has been beautifully utilised. The floors are connected by a sweeping circular staircase positioned at the side of the interior that gently winds upwards and becomes a grand feature. The ground floor provides space for new product display, a cashier, two fitting rooms, a beauty area and VIP room. Upstairs, there are more displays, beauty area, a fitting room and cashier. Each level is particular – light on the top and dark and moody below. There is room to move, to touch and feel the merchandise.

The interior design influence is history – the idea of Pompeii as a city of ash, deconstructed. Wang’s SS20 collection was designed with this in mind, and the architects have then extrapolated the concept throughout the interior. Utilising timber, floor bricks, steel and a minimal colour palette, the establishment is elegant, spare and pared back.

The ground floor is a striking circular space in burnished gold leaf, brass and black with a large splash of cobalt blue at the entrance, the brand colour of hug. A fine linear rail has been attached to the interior rounded walls and selected fashion items are displayed. It’s perfect in its simplicity. Fitting rooms are coloured soft terracotta and textured, multi-coloured block patterned curtains provide privacy. 

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A circular ceiling skylight from the level above provides diffused light to this area and highlights a small green plant situated in the very middle of the floor. However, shadow is the protagonist here and as much a part of the design as the natural and recessed lighting.

Upstairs is profoundly different and features a light, bright space with a black grid on white ceiling. Stainless steel has been included and reflects and refracts the light, while grey displays are illuminated by recessed lighting. The beauty area with benches and work-style chairs sets the scene for the serious business of beautification. Outside this, curved partitioning appears to float above the floor, creating visual connection both below and above this installation. A free-form cobalt blue rug on the floor takes centre stage and subtly reminds customers of the brand colour.

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ATMOSPHERE Architects was founded in 2018 by Tommy Yu. As Chief Designer of the practice, he and his team are dedicated to exploring the relationship between contemporary architecture and space. The studio works in many areas of design that includes architecture, interiors, installation and artwork, video and multimedia production coupled with cutting edge technology. The ultimate goal for the practice is to lead in modern aesthetics and ideas.

ATMOSPHERE Architects has received multiple accolades and is renowned for its creativity and innovation. While the fashion at hug x UMA WANG New Concept Store is style at its best, the interior that showcases the products is equally as outstanding. This is an imaginative and intelligent retail design, presenting a shopping experience that will not be forgotten anytime soon. ATMOSPHERE Architects has indeed transcended the ordinary to create the extraordinary, which is after all what good retail is all about.

Photography by Chuan HE from Here Space

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hug x UMA WANG New Concept Store

Client: hug

Location: Chengdu, China,

Architect: ATMOSPHERE Architects

Project Architect: Tommy Yu

Completion Date: August 2021

Total Floor Area: 485 sqm

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