Redefining retailInternational interior design specialists Garde have extensive skillsets across a range of sectors.
We discover how their retail expertise can transform shopping into an experience
Designer’s notes Akira Kajiwara
If I think about ‘Hankyu’s Elegance’, I start with theconcourse as the true symbol of the old building because
it is the first department store ever built inside a terminalstation. It is designed with a dynamic weather pattern andan organic motif that conveys first-class elegance. If welook at the main chandelier at the first floor, we can seethat it resembles the shape of a glittering star. It conveys a romantic feeling of the vast
universe and its infinite number of stars. A motif of flowers in full bloom is prevalenton the walls and glass partitions.
Designer’s notes Masahito Kamekawa
I have been responsible for the design of the 1F, 2F
and 3F. These floors are dedicated to women’s goods(seasonal products, shoes, accessories, bags, cosmetics).
In particular, the 1F and 2F are organised with a designof the ceiling, pavement and pillars called ‘Hankyu

Hankyu Department Store, OsakaStyle’ that represents the identity of Hankyu. There areHankyu Department Store in Umeda (Osaka) opened in November 2012 afterstrict guidelines that these features stand apart from the sales areas. The challenge

an extensive 8 year renovation. Garde was responsible for the interior design of

was creating a design that fit the demographics and taste of the customers andeleven floors (B1-9F and 11F) and the façade design. The project encompasses overaccommodates a wide variety of products. From the sales counter layout to the80,000 square meters of floor area. The new ‘Hankyu Elegance’ is a style that can bedetailed design, I studied and planned for the most effective way to guide the gaze

defined as a modern interpretation for the 21st Century. The theme is represented

and actions of the customers in the passageways.

with the motif of ‘sky’, ‘earth’ and ‘life’ which are the essential elements in theHankyu had a progressive view

natural world. The style pursues the beauty of nature that comforts the modern

regarding the merchandising concept

heart in a simplistic manner free of extravagant extras.

and wanted us to design the sales
areas to achieve the goal of attracting
customers. Hankyu made the decision toCosmetic Palette, Tobu Department Store

reach for a higher concept that surpasses

The renovation of floors 1F and 2F of Tobu Department Store in Ikebukuroclassifications by category, age, and taste.

was completed and opened on the 6th of September, 2012. The two floors areFor example, a new classification wasdedicated to cosmetic products. The Cosmetic Palette (1F) is a specialist area forcreated based on the sensitive nature of

make-up, skin care, and inner beauty where customers can freely choose theirgift giving in Japan.

products while receiving cosmetic counselling. The Cosmetic Palette enhances thesense of luxury and elegance with champagne golden colours and white shades

Designer’s notes Yutaka Yamamotoin contrast with the vivid colours of the products. The Cosmetic Floor (2F) displays

I was responsible for the women’s clothes floors (3F-6F)

forty seven brands over an area of 1,000 square meters.

and luxury items (2F-3F and 5F). I had gathered previous
experience with Hankyu’s stores in Nishinomiya andDesigner’s notes Akira Kajiwara

Hakata and I knew that in this project I should create a

In the Cosmetic Palette, I designed a colourful shopping

stimulating shopping experience in order to keep theexperience for cosmetics in a modern way, using thecustomers coming back for more. I took up the challenge

circle as a motif, designing ripples on the ceiling, floor andof clearing my mind of the conventional design concepts of department stores.

walls. The floor is a gradation of mosaic tiles, designed

At the centre of the 3F, (The International Designers Floor), is the select shop D.EDIT.

to invite the customers to have a cheerful and relaxed

The interior is inspired by the warehouses of the Meatpacking District in New York, ashopping experience. Since it is a ‘self service’ area, I haveplace that symbolises the forefront of fashion.

paid special attention to the planning in order to make it simple for customers to	The theme of the 4F, (The Umehan Jannu Floor) is a vacation resort where theselect and buy the products in each corner, arranging explanations and mirrors nearcustomers can enjoy a change of scenery strolling down the meandering street. I

every product. Since the Cosmetic Palette is located near the entrance, at the 1F ofdesigned the 6F, (The Premium Closet), with the theme of a big greenhouse with

the Department Store, it is a key area to attract entering customers with high businessblooming flowers.

potential. I have given priority to this idea by designing gentle curves that invite
Designer’s notes Shinya Mizutani

customers inside on a tour to a cheerful shopping experience.

I was responsible for the design of the 11F dedicatedto children’s clothes. At the centre of the 11F there is astairwell. In order to attract the customers and guidethem around the open space, I created the concept ofa ‘wonder trip’, designing every corner with a different
theme, mixing items for adults’ taste with fun attractions
at children’s eye level. Moreover, for the 8F, the space dedicated to sporting goods
called INGS, I came up with the idea of flexible boxes that allow the environment to bemodified with graphics.
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International Property Luxury Collection

Garde is an international consulting and design

mixed-use facilities and beyond. Through their globalcompany, focused on the creation of unique andnetwork, multicultural perspective, team of talented

timeless spaces, based in Tokyo, with offices in Osaka,designers, and cutting-edge knowledge of the latest

Hong Kong, Shanghai, Singapore, Milan, Paris, New York

trends, Garde is able to translate their clients’ vision intoand Los Angeles. They offer services in the following

inspiring results. They are committed to supporting

sectors: office, retail, residential, hospitality, food &clients’ design needs via three pillars of expertise:beverage, entertainment, public spaces, healthcare andconsulting, design, and coordination.

Telephone: +813 3407 0007
Email: ikeda.yasuko@garde-intl.com
Web: www.garde-intl.com
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