Checkland Kindleysides has recently created a pilot store for Wrangler in Leipzig, Germany with a new retail concept. This is Wrangler's first stand-alone store in Germany, and the first of a new design that is planned to be rolled out across Europe.
"The store is designed to capture the spirit of the Wrangler brand," commented Jeff Kindleysides, CK Founder and Creative Head. "Conceptually the store needed to feel impulsive and industrious; this is important for a brand like Wrangler that is full of adrenaline. We also wanted to capture the notion that Wrangler jeans are 'built for strength and tailored for freedom' and again this comes through in the finished store design."
The choice of materials and the way they are used creates an aesthetic which reflects this attitude; from the inherent strength of the aged steel; to the creation of a skylight and use of glass throughout the store, which provide a feeling of translucency and light and a connection that Wrangler is 'the original American outdoor denim brand.'
A key feature display is the 'denim drawing table' which creates a focal point showcasing Wrangler's 'newness', presentingthe latest key outfits, fits and finishes. Also reflecting Wrangler's heritage are the enamel machinists lamps and factory lights which are used throughout the store to highlight the product ranges.
Around the perimeter of the store, the fit out is simple and functional, using a ladder system that feels akin to a storage depot. The bespoke system uses the same hot rolled steel as the 'factory windows', with shelving that uses a patchwork of timber, including reclaimed boards, in subtle tonal colours.
At the back of the store is an easy to shop denim wall, with its simple navigation system it provides regular Wrangler customers with a quick way to selecttheir favourite jean; whilst a fit guide, reminiscent of old cinema signage, provides additional navigational assistance. Women's denim is displayed on fit forms and as outfit collections displayed in supporting bays.
Adding both warmth and a contemporary twist to the brand's American heritage, the store features Navajo Indian rugs, spray stencilled to the raw concrete floor as a graphic, which will develop a worn patina over time as they fade.
The unisex fitting rooms offer a further nod to Wrangler's American western roots, with modern classic Pony skin Eames lounge chairs placed behind a large 'factory window' in the open waiting area. Heavy cotton American stars and stripes flags have been over-dyed black to form simple curtains for each of the timber clad fitting room cubicles. Outside the fitting room entrance an existing staircase was removed, the void replaced with a factory skylight to create the illusion of natural daylight.
The cash desk is designed as both a functional working kiosk and a key selling space for accessories with two pack T-shirts, leather belts and wallets. The kiosk is constructed as an open steel framed cage and sits at the heart of the store. Reminiscent of a workshop office, the design continues the industrial aesthetic.