Great Store Fronts from September, 2008
Living in the 48 contiguous United States can sometimes create a jaded view of Apple's store architecture--it's mostly mall stores that have the standard stainless steel front. But Apple's architects--Bohlin, Cywinsi Jackson--can definitely generate a knock-out when the location permits and local regulations require it.
Two stores that opened during the last days of September, 2008 proved the point again (we already have Regent Street and George Street in the UK as proof) that an Apple store can be something special.
The Royal Hawaiian store in Honolulu (Hi.) opened on Sept. 27th and features natural rock--although its exact origin isn't know. Another set of stone siding was partially installed early in 2008, but removed and replaced with this final product. [photos by indicated photographers on flickr]
The storefront above is enhanced by the setting of palm trees and the upper mall rough concrete siding. The Tiki torches and completely open storefront also provide a welcoming touch.
In the early morning sunlight during grand opening day, you can see that the stone has varying surface textures, lending different shades of light and dark to the surface.
A closer view of the stonework shows that it has craters of various sizes over its surface.
An even closer view of the Royal Hawaiian stone siding, showing the craters, along with fleck of other material within the stone, lending different shades to the stone.
The Rue de Rive (Geneva) store opened Sept. 25th, and is set along a city center street. Notice how the store blends in to the exissting wood façade and arch design. You have to look closely to find the small, white, back-lit Apple logo.
A closer view shows that the T-shaped store space required a narrow entrance that consists of just two doors and the surrounding woodwork. The doors lead to a narrow hallway display area, to another narrow interior space covered with a skylight.
Simple and functional design enhance the existing street scene and Apple's store.
