Project: G-Star service area

Location: Antwerp, Belgium

Program: Service area

Assignment: Retail design

Status: Realised March 2023

Size: -

Client: G-STAR RAW

Design: Studio Modijefsky; Esther Stam, Agnese Pellino, Ivana Stella, Moene van Werven

Photography: Sven Verbruci

Publications: -

Located within the G-Star store in Antwerp, Belgium, beneath its distinctive glass roof, you'll find the brand-new service area crafted by Studio Modijefsky. This collection of architectural blocks and volumes immediately captures attention with its diverse array of shapes and textures, yet it seamlessly integrates into its surroundings through a subtle and discreet interplay of solid elements and empty spaces, making it a naturally captivating focal point within the store.

The design process began with an in-depth analysis and subsequent deconstruction of the building's various architectural elements. It uncovered a juxtaposition of curves and sharp angles, recurring modular patterns, and an array of luminous features that gracefully trace the boundaries of the service area, signifying its diverse functions.

At its core, this design embodies the concepts of hospitality and interaction. It combines engagement, care, and an inviting, accessible design to define the vibrant heart of the store. Dominating the space is a wooden structure known as the box storage, stretching from the basement to the ground floor. The wooden tower that arises from the basement has been designed following the internal brickwork of the original building: the shapes were disassembled and brought together again to form a new three-dimensional storage element. The offline & online store provided by G-Star evolves around this structure: after an order has been placed online, the package is positioned on the tower waiting for the customer to pick it up. L-shaped shelves are punctuated by five sets of vertical modules, creating a rhythmic sequence of openings. Revolving around it are eight distinct blocks that harmoniously blend various functions, with interaction as their central theme. In front of it is the wrapping station, equipped with several compartments that fit all the different packing tools & miscellaneous. This area not only serves as a functional space for G-Star’s staff, it includes a coffee corner where every customer can enjoy a warm brew while waiting on their product to be wrapped up. On the opposite side stands a versatile tailoring station that transforms into a DJ booth.

The primary materials used in this design are oak wood and a specially crafted translucent recycled plastic. Together, they infuse the entire store with a warm ambiance, thanks to their soft tones, the tactile sensation of wood, and the gentle radiance emitted by the integrated light elements.