Kim Kardashian’s lingerie and clothing brand SKIMS landed in New York with its first flagship on 5th Avenue, and like SKIMS’s skin-tight style, the store design by New York–based practice Rafael de Cárdenas accentuates the body. Rounded soffits and walls mimic the contours of SKIMS’s bodycon styles. Custom mannequins and a feminine and figural 15-foot sculpture by Vanessa Beecroft puts the anatomy quite literally on display. The store’s own cladding, a monochrome pinky, beige nude, recalls supple soft skin—or SKIMS rather.
Many nude shades were considered during the design process. “Our client had a strong vision about a tonal approach and this particular color was painstakingly examined,” the practice’s titular founder, Rafael de Cárdenas, told AN Interior. “It’s a very pale beige paint that is on the cool side and called Edgecomb Gray. A lighter, more neutral color established a more versatile backdrop for the ever expanding product offering and countless collaborations.” The color completely clads the store’s 3 stories and 6,570 square feet as it allows the products, showcased on Corian displays, to take center stage.
For the layout, the designers used the natural organization of the pre-existing building while making sure to pay homage to the flagship’s historic facade. A row of arches helps create distinct zones within the space and allude to the arched windows at the front. They’re further accentuated by the mirrors placed alongside them, making them appear endless.
The arches eventually flow into the fitting room. Here the designers continued to focus on the body; this time, how it feels within the space. For instance, it was especially important to de Cárdenas that the fitting rooms “provide an intimate space that made people feel comfortable taking photos in shape-wear and intimates.” He continued, “The lighting levels are intentionally low and are cast asymmetrical on the body, resulting in a shadow effect that adds a subtle drama within the comfort of the space.”
Lighting throughout the store maintains a soft glow. It enables a welcoming environment. More importantly, it makes for great selfie lighting, too.