Its legacy is nothing short but iconic, and therefore maintaining it not only requires an effort, but also a coherent vision. We’re talking Selfridges, the high-end London department store that continues to be a benchmark in global retail since its foundation in 1909. It’s latest endeavour to do so, is the completion of the planet’s largest accessories hall with the launch of a brand new eyewear section. Designed by local architecture practice Alex Cochrane Architects, the newest area measures 4,000 sq.ft. (372 sqm.) and features rows of displays laden set across a lofty hall. Walls, pillars and shelving are clad in similar terrazzo, and is offset by white marble flooring. Detailing in walnut wood, rosewood veneer, glass, brass and felt adds a sophisitcated touch to the setting. Lighting comprises of ceiling spotlights, alternated by rows of pendant lamps that balance out the linear character of the setting. The area comes with full optometrist services, in addition to pre-screening and treatment rooms. Leave it to Selfridges to fill the space with merchandise as over 2,200 different eyewear styles are presented, and just under two-thirds of which are sunglasses of both top brands and lesser-known niche labels. Mind you, there’s also a new dedicated Chanel section stocking a special selection of eyewear, and a curated collection of the finest frames and sunglasses available anywhere on the planet. And still, that’s not all. The renewal has also spawned Progressive Edit, a new dedicated space showcasing the most original accessories labels, including accesories, small leather goods, bags, and an exclusive destion dedicated to Dover Street Market jewellery.
Selfridges
400 Oxford Street (Mayfair)
London W1A 1AB
Telephone: +44 20 71606222
Mon-Sat 10-8
Sun 11.30-6
Publishers Note
Just to be clear – superfuture® is a design blog and not a political commentator. No surprise there. The scope of our content has always been global and borderless, however that can often mean covering projects in countries where we will not agree with the politics or actions of those countries. In a world that’s as screwed up as ever right now, the focus of our support is to those designers, architects and other creatives who aim to make the world a more liveable one – as opposed to people that try their hardest to destroy it. So if a project hits our desk and we like it based on its design credentials, we may choose to publish regardless of its location or creators nationality. superfuture® has always been inclusive and hopes for all current wars, aggression, violence, hate and extremism to end.
