Guided By Cohesion – Rundle Street Store by IF Architecture

Through a layered and nuanced journey, Assembly Label’s Rundle Street Store, designed by IF Architecture, becomes an eloquent response to the locale in which it sits. IF Architecture and Assembly Label combine to create the space, drawing on shared beliefs that environment, discovery and connection are integral to the overall retail experience.

Upon entry, one is met with an open and detailed environment that encourages a sense of discovery – a journey that allows one to see the product through a narrowed lens, to engage with on a sensory level. This approach stemmed from a shared philosophy held by both IF Architecture and Assembly label – one that looked to the surrounding environment and local Adelaide area for inspiration during the initial stages of the design process. As such, conversations centred around how to nurture a genuine connection with the customers from an interior design perspective whilst still maintaining the essence of the Assembly Label brand.

Upon entry, one is met with an open and detailed environment that encourages a sense of discovery – a journey that allows one to see the product through a narrowed lens, to engage with on a sensory level.

Structurally, the store is rectangular in shape, yet the narrow shopfront creates spatial depth that enables passers-by to see through the space from the street. These vignettes signal the beginning of the in-store journey. Once inside, this journey continues with softened corners and finishes; rather than having rectilinear lines, the curvature invites one to gently move through the space.

To honour Assembly Label’s history of working with craftspeople, IF Architecture engages with the interior detailing at a sensory level. Therefore, many elements within the store are designed with timber detailing to accentuate the striking craftsmanship. For example, the American oak timber counter is designed without handles to allow staff to engage with the joinery itself and absorb the warmth of the material. For the customer, this sense of engagement happens through interactions with the aluminium rails housing the ethical clothing. The materiality also links back beautifully to the fashion itself. The textures in the woollen knits, t-shirts and jeans are a nuanced way of connecting the customer with the physical store.

The materiality also links back beautifully to the fashion itself. The textures in the woollen knits, t-shirts and jeans are a nuanced way of connecting the customer with the physical store.

Similarly, materiality is a way in which the store connects to the fabric of the city. The structural floor remains and the texture of the concrete is enhanced by grinding it down to allow for the cracks, pebbles and stones to show.

A beautiful summation of the work between Assembly Label, local makers and various craftspeople, the resulting Rundle Street Store reveals the power of cohesion in design. As such, the store is both functional and aesthetic, but at its core, offers an authentic retail experience.