An inspired flagship store in Xi’an, HEYTEA Yongning Alley Store by Leaping Creative is an experiential space that stirs up images of the ancient capital of Xi’an while conveying a new lifestyle.
Situated across from the historic Xi’an City Wall, the flagship façade is designed to be as light and transparent as possible. Both outside and inside, lines and curves, light and shadow, reflect the interface between old and new.
In terms of layout, original shear walls and columns set the boundary walls and separate indoor spaces from outdoor spaces. Modern fog-faced stainless steel and floor-to-ceiling glazing visually echo the city wall and historical elements are not reproductions, but rather modern recreations that draw on the essence of the original.
The interior realm is dominated by a yellow sandstone known to the region, which contrasts against silver-grey metal and bright yellow hues. The bright yellow serves as a metaphor for the ancient city wall and royal capital with the silver-grey representing anticipation of the future.
A futuristic, metallic look greets visitors while a circular order counter is surrounded by square walls made of large yellow sandstone slabs, offering a visually striking collision of shapes and materials.
Metal is used as a functional space partition as well as an experiential material that reflects mood shifts. An iconic arch encased in metal represents the passage to another time and place. After passing through the arch, customers are welcomed by handmade yellow bricks featuring raised dots that recall the scale dots found on the armour of Qin-dynasty Terracotta Warriors - an abstraction of history and culture.
Other elements that show respect for regional culture while creating a new spatial experience that integrates local culture include irregularly shaped furniture pieces made of translucent yellow resin and weathered cave stone. Patterns in the seat fabric draw from elements found in a scroll depicting the Silk Road.
Throughout the interior, irregular stone chairs reflect the rugged heritage of Xi’an while sunlight from the floor-to-ceiling glazing illuminates the yellow walls.
