schemata architects turns salvaged materials into upcycled furniture for re;code seoul store

Schemata Architects uplifts RE;CODE flagship store in seoul

Schemata Architects has designed the flagship store for Re;code in Seoul, a brand recognized for creatively repurposing clothing from various brands through upcycling. Unlike conventional setups, this store incorporates an atelier within its space, allowing for the on-site creation and sale of items fashioned from upcycled materials. Embracing the essence of upcycling, the store utilizes salvaged materials like tiles and bricks, reclaimed wood, and cardboard pulp in its fixtures and display units, contributing to a sustainable aesthetic. The resulting design features clean geometries with a balanced mix of materials and textures, which please the eye yet create a warm and serene ambiance for the customers. This design choice aligns with Re;code’s mission while reflecting a commitment to environmental consciousness within the brand space.

all images by Ju Yeon Lee

a design approach that breaks from Traditional Layouts 

According to the design team, a typical store layout consists of a skeleton, interior, and furniture. However, the architects intentionally excluded the second element – the interior – to enhance the store’s flexibility. This uncommon approach applies not only to the furniture but also to the electrical components. Lighting and electricity, usually part of the interior, were separated and directly connected from the skeleton to the furniture. ‘At first, we could not predict how lighting attached to furniture would illuminate the space perhaps because we are accustomed to lighting evenly distributed on the skeleton’ shared Schemata Architects. However, this decision led to an unexpectedly effective lighting setup, illuminating the space and the displayed products. ‘It turned out that the lighting did not cause an uneven distribution but achieved a lighting environment that illuminates the products effectively.’

Re;code flagship store in Seoul where upcycled materials tell a sustainable design story

the innovative interior challenges traditional store layouts with a focus on flexibility and resource circulation

the fixtures and display units are crafted from repurposed materials, including tiles and bricks salvaged from demolished buildings

the space exudes sophistication through its clear geometries and subtle metal accents

the atelier showcases the process of transforming salvaged materials into unique upcycled products

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The store integrates its atelier, where materials are upcycled on-site to create and sell unique items

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

project info:

name: Re;code Cheongdam flagship store
architects: Jo Nagasaka / Schemata Architects
team: Masami Nakata
construction: Changjoplan Co.,Ltd
collaboration: Lee Kwangho (Furniture), KUODUO (Fixture)
location: 11 Dosan-daero 75-gil Gangnam_gu, Seoul, Korea
floor area: 347 sqm
type of structure: wood
opening: 05/2023
photography: Ju Yeon Lee | @juyeonlee__