Over 160 pieces of gray stone have been installed at the future Royal Hawaiian (Honolulu) retail store, the final step leading to a grand opening within weeks. The stone appears similar to the gray siltstone being used for the chain’s floors, but a closer inspection reveals differences. These wall stones have small and random voids that give them a volcanic appearance. Also, the crystalline structure of of the stone is larger than those in the flooring material. The first set of wall stone tiles was partially installed last April, but then removed for an unknown reason, delaying the grand opening of the store until these replacement stones could arrive. In the meantime, the store interior has been finished and employees have been farmed out to the city’s two other retail stores. Check photos after the break.
Thanks to Bruno for the photos. Also check the exterior of the newish Ste. Catherine store in Montreal–is the stone identical?
You can clearly see the finished stone siding and the support brackets used to hang the stone.
Workers use a system of hoists to lift each piece of stone into place.
This panoramic view shows the side of the store and how it will occupy two levels, one accessible from the ground level, and the other from the interior second-level of the mall.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Wow really nice panorama picture. I didn’t see any glass staircase from the previously posted pics from this store. How is level changing accomplished? Also, I distinctly remember seeing the Genius Bar on the 1st floor behind a column, why not on the second floor?
-Brian
As much as I can tell, the first floor is retail, including the Genius Bar and any one on one training. The second floor is not for walk-in customers. It seems to be storage, office and employee area. The staircase is behind the wall on the West side and is made of wood. Not an Apple retail design. The elevator is next to the staircase, also behind the wall. The Genius Bar is at the back right (as seen from the street) right next to the mall side entrance door. Because of shopping center requirements, this will be a very different looking store.
Maybe Apple made a mistake by not making a more distinctive design but it would have greatly increased their costs for little retail return.
Maybe I can get there for the opening if it’s on the 27th. But never over estimate Hawaiian Labor! Those stone setters may make it last until after the Munich Store opens! it will be a race of the Sloths!
Rumors that the grand opening is October 1st.