Reiss Design Studio
SQUIRE & PARTNERS, Barrett Street, London
Concept
Squire and Partners were invited to enter a limited competition to design the fashion retailer's design studios and offices, its central London flagship store and a residential element as part of the scheme.
The winning competition design focused on looking at the main facade as a 'veil' or a piece of fabric or clothing in line with the brand's image. Many different design options were explored as part of the creative process including looking at different colours and finishes of the glass as well as fabric interlayers between the glazing and how the facade would be illuminated at night. 1:20 and 1:1 scale facade models were also used to develop the design.
The final design incorporated a double skin facade. The inner skin utilised a more standard 'stick' curtain walling system whereas the outer skin was manufactured using factory milled acrylic panels. The final result was a facade that had depth and a layered quality in line with the fashion retailer's modern and understated brand.
