COO teamed up with Vans to design Vans’ first new OTW concept store in China, located in Chengdu’s landmark lifestyle shopping mall, Taikoo Li. This mall, wrapped around Daci Temple, is highly popular with younger, lifestyle-conscious consumers and is the top shopping destination in China. The store design aims to be pinnacle and unique, meeting the high expectations of the brand and its customers.
The brief was clear: “Build a boutique store that features the most unique design, offers the best level of store experience, and showcases the pinnacle of our product line. A place to meet, create, and influence.”
Situated in a premium ground-level location, the store spans 178 m². The walls and display cases are made of Skatelite Pro®, the same material used in professional skateparks. The space is sleek and clean, allowing products and artworks to stand out. Aluminum surfaces, polished terrazzo, and large light ceilings create a high-end boutique feel, contrasted by bold urban artworks.
Two artists were invited to work in the store until its opening. Street artist Disor draws inspiration from underground music culture and graphics, bringing a modern twist to graffiti. One entire wall is dedicated to the theme of “Noise,” symbolizing disbelief and an uncompromising spirit. It reflects young people’s interpretation of the world and themselves, expressing their uninhibited hearts and limitless futures.
Donis, a young graffiti artist from Xinjiang, combines bold, powerful strokes with a touch of elegance. The doorway features Vans’ classic checkerboard design, with each grid containing unique fonts that blend the warmth of handwriting with the freedom of graffiti, creating a street vibe infused with Chinese calligraphy.
The centerpiece graffiti, “Nailed It” (or “Skateboarding Success!” in Chinese), symbolizes challenge and victory. It blends traditional Persian carpet patterns with modern checkered designs, showcasing the beauty of old and new in harmony.
This store explores the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity.
“As a skater and a Sichuan local, designing the new Vans store was incredible. It was exciting to experience our local vibe meeting Vans’ street culture and capturing that energy. I hope the new store brings the community together and adds more fun to our city!”
Siyi Liu, Designer/COO
“Vans Neo-Boutique is where Vans’ premium style meets Chengdu street culture at such a historic and modern site. For me, it was a super fun ride diving into the whole skateboarding vibe and Chengdu lifestyle.”
Yusi Li, Designer/COO
Type:
Shop
Location:
Taikoo Li
8 Zhongshamao
Jinjiang District
Chengdu
Sichuan, China
Assignment:
Concept Design
Extent:
178 m2
Year:
2024
Team:
Siyi Liu
Yusi Li
Yu Yin
Client:
VF Apparel (China) Co., Ltd.
Photos:
Vans
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