Japanese design studio Kooo Architects converts an old textile factory from the 70s in Shanghai to a store that captures the values of Freitag, which is a messenger bag manufacturer. It is located in central Shanghai, the store was made to retain elements of the original factory by incorporating reused materials.
Kooo Architects tells Dezeen that "In order to reduce CO2 emission as much as possible, the building interior does not use any decorational material, and all surfaces and conduits are exposed. In order to achieve a connected, inclusive and transparent environment, nothing is hidden, and there are no interior partition walls either. Even the storage space is positioned in front of the visitors across all three floors. These spatial characters are highly relevant to the factory spirit of Freitag, and the space is a natural reflection of that."
Repurposed Textile Factory Stores
Kooo Architects Converts an Old Factory to a Store for Freitag
Trend Themes
1. Repurposed-factory-stores - The trend of converting old factories into stores continues, providing unique and sustainable retail spaces.
2. Exposed-interiors - The trend of leaving surfaces and conduits exposed in building interiors for a raw and industrial aesthetic is gaining popularity.
3. Transparent-retail-environments - The trend of creating inclusive and transparent retail environments, without interior partition walls, is becoming prevalent in retail design.
Industry Implications
1. Retail - The retail industry can explore the opportunities presented by repurposed factory stores and using exposed interiors and transparent retail environments to attract customers.
2. Architecture - The architecture industry can take on more projects to convert old factories into retail spaces while implementing sustainable design practices to reduce CO2 emissions.
3. Manufacturing - The manufacturing industry can utilize similar design principles in their own factories and shops to reflect their brand values of sustainability and transparency.