Apple’s London store has reopened following a major renovation by Foster + Partners which incorporates trees in its interior.
The Regent Street store – Apple’s first outpost in Europe when it opened in 2004 – was closed for a lengthy period while it was revamped according to the company’s new interior design format.
As seen in the San Francisco Apple Store, also designed by British architecture firm Foster + Partners, the new approach puts more emphasis on community and entertainment.
Set behind a Grade II-listed exterior facade on London’s busy Regent Street, the store has been opened up through the removal of an an atrium level around the edge of the store.
Stefan Behling, architect at Foster + Partners said, “The new Apple Regent Street is about a respectful dialogue between old and new – carrying forward a heritage of craftsmanship in a contemporary way.
“Contained within its historic fabric, is a new grand ‘town square’ with trees that bring nature into the interior spaces.
“Everything from the vast luminous ceiling to the sculptural stone handrails create an experience that is warm and inviting, providing a calm backdrop for everyone to experience Apple’s incredible products, in addition to a diverse and vibrant programme of events. It is a place for people to meet and collaborate, and most of all, it will be an exciting experience that goes beyond retail.”