The new flagship Manolo Blahnik store in Hong Kong opened in January 2016. Situated in Landmark shopping centre in central Hong Kong the original Manolo Blahnik space was expanded and re-designed by evolving the concept of the existing Elements store in Kowloon. This concept draws inspiration from traditional Chinese weaving and handicrafts by creating a timber and bronze woven system combining display, screening and shop front.
The studio took this concept and adapted it for the front section of the Landmark store. The materials were adjusted by including a darker stone and brass to give a more luxurious feel for the flagship store. The materials follow through to the rear of the shop where a more private “wardrobe” space was created to display select shoes and handbags. In this area the weave was replaced with fabric lined display boxes and marble topped display tables.
Between the front and rear of the shop, secluded seating spaces were installed with upholstered walls to create an intimate setting for customers to try on shoes. As with the Kowloon store, the natural colours of the weave were juxtaposed with brightly coloured upholstered ottomans in pink, green and blue.