Escada, London

This year we’ve been spoilt for choice with so many highly creative new retail stores opening across the UK on our high streets and in our shopping centres. Back in sophisticated Sloane Square a high end
retailer that prides itself on offering top quality in fabrics, fit and workmanship to the modern woman, piqued our interest.

Lying at the bottom of Sloane Street and below a residential newbuild, an utterly gorgeous fashion boutique has recently launched - this is not for the faint hearted for the price tag is significantly high.
Escada has created a luxurious interior fitout for even the finest A-list celebrity. The store with its double height, full glass front that allows views throughout its entirety and the daylight to permeate through to its very core, is sensational. The fixtures and fittings are equally opulent and pay homage to the stylish clothing. There is ample space within this chic boutique to admire the collection and peruse - this is
a non pressurised store where staff is on hand but not pushy and you are free to roam.

From the outside, the store is virtually transparent through the all glass store front. Mannequins decorate the windows and are positioned around the store, otherwise this is a clean and uncluttered environment.

Everything is on a grand scale adding to the sumptuous feel; from the store’s gargantuan height to the shopfittings, mirrors and shelving which all extend from floor to ceiling. Gold, tubular fixtures rise up to the ceiling from the hanging rails and shelving below. Towards the back of the store an oversized, wardrobe style, floor to ceiling shelving unit displays handbags, shoes and accessories and creates a dramatic backdrop.

Clothes rails are minimalist, using a curved, gold tubular bar that creates an eye catching installation around the entire perimeter. Glass showcases edged with gold display folded merchandise and
continue the theme. Low display tables loaded with vases of flowers create a floral spectacle in complimentary colours within this elegant store. Seating is provided amidst the display tables and counters where you can sit and ponder, or to try on a pair of shoes.

Natural wood parquet flooring sets off the otherwise minimal white walls and ceiling. A gold leaf design adds a delicate, textural detail to the walls enhancing the gold of the clothes rails and counters. A row of
elegant contemporary pendants hang from the ceiling, and concealed trough lighting is used throughout the space in keeping with the simple clean lines.

The store is treated in the same respect as the clothes: cut and finished to a very high spec. rpa:group has created a visual paradise within this 1,463 square foot space. The designers worked with Escada
to provide detailed design drawings and specification. The result is a formidable flagship for this premium retailer.