Holzweiler Chengdu
Inspired by the Norwegian landscapes and coastal movements

The design of the Holzweiler Chengdu store is inspired by the Norwegian elements, as they are a powerful influence on our daily life and a vital part of both Holzweiler's and Snøhetta's identity.

Nature plays a significant role in Norway's identity and culture. Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including fjords, mountains, forests, and pristine wilderness. Nature is central to Norwegian culture, serving as a source of inspiration, livelihood, and a reminder of the importance of living in harmony with the environment.

The design concept of "Norwegian Elements" remains at the core of the store's identity. The store design continues to draw inspiration from Norwegian landscapes and coastal movements, which are reflected in the fluid surfaces, wave-like ceiling, and use of warm clay tones with a rough to smooth finish.

The store's cast glass façade is a standout feature that creates a sense of curiosity for passersby. It entices people to explore the store further and showcases a contemporary aesthetic that is visually striking.

The large format LED displays serve as more than just advertising screens. They become a "window" into the brand's world, giving customers an immersive experience of its vision and style. Technology enhances the store's storytelling aspect, enabling customers to connect with the brand beyond merely browsing products.

Fluid surfaces guide visitors through different zones inside the store. This design approach enhances the flow and movement within the space, ensuring a seamless and intuitive shopping experience for customers.

The store utilizes warm clay tones, ranging from rough to smooth finishes, to create a neutral background for the changing displays of Holzweiler's clothing and accessory line. These tones provide a sense of warmth and sophistication, adding to the overall ambiance of the space's Scandinavian minimalism.

The waved ceiling, made of steel with a sandblasted finish, subtly reflects the environment and people within the store. This dynamic feature adds a touch of visual interest and depth to the overall design. The micro cement floor, with its soft movement pattern in a two-tone color scheme, complements the wave ceiling and contributes to the overall aesthetic harmony of the space.

Inspired by nature's dynamic and ever-changing aspects, such as the movement of ocean waves or the swaying of trees in the wind. This contrast between motion and stillness could be translated into the design by using fluid lines, dynamic forms, or materials that evoke a sense of movement.

Nature often presents contrasts between clear visibility and subtle distortions. For instance, the play of light and shadow through foliage or how reflections ripple on the water's surface. We explored how to replicate these contrasts within the store's design, incorporating elements like reflective surfaces, strategic lighting, or textured materials that create visually fascinating and engaging environments.

A delicate balance between order and chaos if ever present in the nature, where organized patterns coexist with random formations. The project is inspired by the interplay between structured and organic forms, incorporating elements that bring harmony and surprise to the store's design. This could be reflected in the arrangement of furniture, the use of natural materials, or the integration of asymmetrical design elements and hand-painted surfaces.

Furthermore, nature offers a multitude of contrasting textures and surfaces, from rough and rugged landscapes to smooth and serene bodies of water. We have drawn inspiration from these contrasts in texture, integrating materials with diverse tactile qualities to create a sensory experience within the store.

By translating these contrasting relationships in nature into the Holzweiler Chengdu store's design, we aim to create an interior space that reflects the dynamic and ever-changing nature of fashion while providing an engaging and immersive environment for visitors.