Architecture studio Didea has unveiled an innovatively designed interior for the Super F streetwear store located in St Julian’s, Malta. Nestled within ZHA’s Mercury Tower, this 600-square-metre retail space combines flexibility with modularity to seamlessly coexist with the iconic architecture, featuring a metal-infused atmosphere that enhances its unique character.
Steel-Infused Store Interior: A Harmonious Blend of Curves and Angles
The store’s exterior features a captivating glazed, curved facade which transitions into the interior through a central curved clothing display and sleek, rounded steel fitting rooms. This design approach, however, primarily utilizes a geometric grid system. “We avoided invasive architectural alterations and masonry work, opting for a bespoke dry-assembled system designed with millimetre precision,” explained Nicola Andò, Didea’s creative director.
The Tower’s Inspiration and Versatile Design
Positioned within the commercial podium of Mercury Tower, completed in 2024, the store mirrors the architectural dynamism of its surrounding environment. “Mercury Tower inspired us to explore movement and how the space gradually reveals itself, from the square into the store,” Andò shared with Dezeen. The layout, materials, and lighting harmonize with the building’s vibrancy while establishing a unique identity for Super F with its metallic interior.
Urban Aesthetic with Modular Flexibility
Didea meticulously crafted a modular grid within the store, using varied display systems, panels, and furniture. The black steel ceiling discreetly conceals essential building services, while the brushed, polished, and mirrored steel reflects the store’s robust urban character. “Steel reflects Super F’s urban character and provides a backdrop for the colors of the products and the changing light,” Andò noted, emphasizing the tailored feel achieved through precise detailing. This structured environment contributes to its unique urban aesthetic.
Innovative Functional Elements
The store integrates flexible elements such as steel-block plinths and garment rails. A distinctive comb-like system secures the hefty plinths, while garment rails easily transition from window display to store interior. “They slot into purpose-made circular sockets, without screws or other fixings,” co-founder Giuseppe De Lisi explained, highlighting the interior design versatility and modular design.
A Multifaceted Cultural Venue
Super F transcends traditional retail, aspiring to be a cultural nexus. “It brings fashion, beauty, art and music together in one place,” Andò stated. Designed to morph through sound and lighting, the store transforms into a vibrant club for events and performances. This vision is a testament to streetwear’s global influence and the vitality of urban culture, enhanced by its distinctive steel elements.
In addition to the Super F store, other recent noteworthy projects include a wood-filled Danish design shop in Seoul and a sculptural jewelry boutique in New York. The versatile and reflective nature of Didea’s work continues to leave an indelible mark on contemporary retail design.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What design approach did Didea use for Super F store?
Didea used a bespoke dry-assembled system designed with millimetre precision and avoided invasive architectural alterations and masonry work.
How does Super F store reflect the urban character?
The store uses brushed, polished, and mirrored steel, which reflect Super F’s urban character while also providing a backdrop for the colors of the products and changing light.
What multifunctional elements are included in the Super F store?
The store includes flexible elements like steel-block plinths and garment rails, which can transition from window display to store interior without screws or fixings.