neri&hu designs minimalist, nature-inspired retail interiors in Shanghai

two flagship products completed in Shanghai

Neri&Hu The design and research office unveiled two flagship stores in ShanghaiDevelopment of Panlong Tiandi for fashion brand Jisifang and its sister brand, Woven Moonlight. The adjacent retail spaces offer a distinct design dialogue, each tailored to the respective brand identity while sharing a common thread of connection with nature.

The Jisifang boutique is inspired by the concept of “Primitive Cabin” by 18th century architectural philosopher Marc-Antoine Laugier. The concept is widely considered the fundamental archetype of all architecture. This results in an uncluttered space focused on the essence of the shelter and a connection to the natural world. The design aligns perfectly with Jisifang’s focus on linen, a material considered a bridge between everyday life and nature.

images © Pedro Pegenaute

the contrasting interiors of “jisifang” and “moonlight woven”

At the heart of the Jisifang store in Shanghai, Neri&Hu designed a wooden structure which defines a calm space allowing customers to discover the products. The interiors express a minimalist approach, stripped of any decoration. Natural white oak with exposed grain and warm ceramic tiles create a backdrop that complements the textures of linen clothing. A high, sloping roof maximizes the volume of the space, while filtered light and framed views of the exterior street provide a gentle connection to the urban environment. ‘The inserted wooden structure forms a spiritual space to live and inhabit, but also serves as a very functional element for displaying products.,’ say the architects to designboom.

Meanwhile, Wired Moonlight’s space takes a contrasting approach as Neri&Hu envisions a cave-like experience. Textured concrete walls surround the main display area, with niches carved out to showcase the clothing. These niches are lined with translucent linen curtains and accented with custom walnut cabinets. The effect shows a contrast between raw concrete, the softness of textiles and the warmth of wood.

Design and research office Neri&Hu created flagship stores for Jisifang and Woven Moonlight in Shanghai

a modern “primitive cabin” by neri&hu

When visitors explore the Jisifang and Woven Moonlight stores in Shanghai, they are protected by sloping ceilings flooded with ambient light. While the Jisifang boutique is defined by its wooden structure, the Moonlight woven interiors feature a unique double-sloped ceiling punctuated with skylights. Natural light floods the space throughout the day, enlivening the clothing on display. This play of light and shadow further underlines the connection with nature, even in a built environment.

Through the contrasting designs of the two projects, Neri&Hu explores the concept of a primordial human space, a return to a more fundamental state of being. The team hopes that experiencing the natural textures of linen in these stores will allow visitors to escape the urban environment and reconnect with nature.

the stores are located in the Panlong Tiandi development and reflect the identity of each brand
Neri&Hu hopes stores will allow visitors to reconnect with nature
Jisifang Boutique is inspired by the concept of “Primitive Cabin”