DESIGN MEETS HERITAGE || Inside HONOR’s Flagship Store in Chengdu
A new narrative of urban renewal unfolds in the heart of Chengdu’s Kuanzhai Alley, where the echoes of history resonate through narrow lanes lined with traditional Sichuan-style courtyards.
Here, the HONOR Retail Design Studio has embarked on a creative venture, redefining the boundaries of a retail experience by merging modern technology with a cultural landmark. The new flagship store for HONOR, a tech brand known for its forward-thinking ethos, stands as a pioneering example of blending ancient architectural heritage with the aesthetics of contemporary retail design.
Across China, historic neighbourhoods often face the dilemma of preserving their cultural identity while catering to the demands of modern urban development. HONOR’s flagship store in Chengdu offers a compelling answer to this challenge through design-led innovation that respects the past while embracing the future. The 300-year-old building, once a quiet, traditional residence, has been rejuvenated with subtle yet profound design interventions, transforming it into a vibrant tech haven.
An understated entrance echoes the unique etiquette of western-Sichuan courtyards. The original layout has been preserved, with careful renovations to the facade and a restored symmetrical roofline.
Integrating Local Heritage and Modern Design
The project harmonizes the original architectural elements with HONOR’s cutting-edge technological narrative. The building retains its original layout and characteristic features—gray tiled rooftops, symmetrical rooflines, and intricate wooden carvings—while incorporating modern design elements like glass windows and custom wooden signage. These thoughtful details ensure the store does not disrupt the historical landscape of Kuanzhai Alley but rather complements it, enhancing its timeless beauty.
The design draws inspiration from Chinese garden aesthetics, incorporating natural elements like bamboo and using traditional garden techniques like framed views and opposite views.
Visitors are greeted by a modest entrance that reflects the etiquette of traditional western Sichuan courtyards, setting the tone for a journey that fuses old and new. Inside, the spatial design employs a semi-transparent water curtain, subtly dividing areas while echoing the traditional Chinese philosophy of “facing water and leaning against mountains.” This creates a sense of serenity, inviting guests to explore the store’s offerings in a contemplative state of mind.
In the main passage, three clay figurines named “Leshu” (meaning “Happy Sichuan”) draw inspiration from artifacts from the Sanxingdui Museum. They pay homage to the optimistic local ethos while serving as unique product displays.
A Journey Through Spaces of Culture, Technology, and Art
The store’s interior is divided into thematic zones that narrate a story of the harmonious coexistence of technology and cultural heritage. Each zone, from the Tech Aesthetics Lounge to the Local Art Gallery, is designed to offer a unique sensory experience where customers can interact with the brand’s products in a curated, museum-like setting. Art installations blend seamlessly with tech displays, creating a dynamic environment where every corner reveals a new perspective on the fusion of technology, culture, and art.
The spatial design emphasizes openness and transparency, with expansive glass curtain walls and a broad entrance that seamlessly connect the interior with the external environment.
The central courtyard, a nod to the original structure, continues the motif of the grey-tiled roof down to the ground, where the tiles are mirrored in a tranquil waterscape. This setting connects the indoor gallery with the outdoor space, blurring the boundaries between interior and exterior, heritage and innovation. Lighting hidden within grooved stone patterns and wooden carvings further accentuates the ambiance, creating a play of shadows and light that adds depth and character to the space.
A Space for Community and Cultural Engagement
More than a retail outlet, the HONOR flagship store is a cultural destination that reimagines the purpose of commercial spaces. Over half of the store is dedicated to cultural and artistic activities, transforming it into a hub for community engagement and cultural exchange. The store collaborates with local artists and cultural bodies, presenting exhibits that celebrate the convergence of Chinese technology and traditional artistry, attracting a diverse audience worldwide.
The cultural product area showcases a variety of items on a display wall, from lifestyle accessories, to phone cases and exclusive collaborations.
An art exhibition area centred around the courtyard creates a serene environment. Two distinct circulation routes on either side cater to shopping and cultural experiences.
Through this innovative approach, HONOR has not only revitalized a historic neighbourhood but also redefined the concept of a tech retail store. The Chengdu flagship stands as a beacon of how technology can be woven into the fabric of cultural heritage, offering a bespoke retail experience that deepens the emotional connection between the brand and its consumers. As the store continues to draw visitors, it also sets a precedent for other historic districts across China, inviting them to embrace a future where tradition and modernity walk hand in hand.
PROJECT DETAILS
Project name: HONOR Flagship Store, Chengdu
Location: K2 Courtyard, Kuanxiangzi Alley, Kuanzhai Alley, Chengdu
Category: Retail
Area: 973 sqm
Client: HONOR
Completion: May 2024
Design team: HONOR Retail Design Studio
Consultants: LabD+H, GCL Construction Group
Photography: Peng Yi
Main materials: terrazzo, mirrored stainless steel, grey brick, glass
Video: https://youtu.be/xqBuiKRcQjI