for circular economy’

Which retail project struck you for its sustainability while judging the awards?

VICTORIA STILES: The winning single-brand retail store, Kolon Sport in Jeju, South Korea [see p. 28] is all about embracing existing ecosystems. Jo Nagasaka/Schemata Architects incorporated local marine debris into the store’s fixtures to show how the brand can embrace sustainability and do good. Sustainable design solutions have been around for a while, but the exciting thing is that now retailers are willing to invest and make a difference.

Why is sustainability top of mind now? Solutions are more readily available and lessons have been learned. Big businesses have led the way and now their findings are filtering down. Retailers aren’t as nervous anymore to go out and make changes. Moreover, consumers now have a huge say by aligning more than ever with brands that have clear sustainability goals and initiatives. In this regard, Gen Zers have a loud voice. We’re leaving them the legacy of our planet, so we should be listening.

How should designers make retail more sustainable?

The overall message is that we should be designing for longevity instead of a five-year timespan. Start with getting the fundamentals right: use fixtures and finishes with a long lifespan to design a beautiful, minimalistic and smart shell that allows products to be showcased well. Incorporate art, inject quirky elements, work with different lighting concepts, change colours and switch signage to keep the experience fresh. That’s what retail is all about. You need to draw attention to your store by continuously collaborating with amazing product designers, artists or graphic design- ers. It will always be an ongoing process. But we also need to design for a circular economy. Consider reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and fit-outs. We should be designing to eliminate or at least minimize waste. That’s a really exciting exercise in itself.

On its website, Mirvac states that retail can positively impact communities if it’s reimagined. How?

Our retail centres are more than places to shop. They are trusted community meeting places. Landlords need to think about how they can ensure their spaces are safe, inclusive and welcoming for all. This can be done through reimagining the spaces in and around these buildings for community events; partnering with local organizations, schools and artists; and inspiring people to deliver workshops, »

Window Display of the Year