Located on Xinhua South Street in Zhengzhou, the project is a women’s fashion retail space that turns imagination into reality, showcasing aesthetic curiosities all around the world. Say draws inspiration from Zhenzhou’s deep connection with rivers, translating the idea of “River” into the spatial framework. Creating a lucid and inclusive spatial realm where each garment is a stone in the flowing stream and where light and shadow move, weaving an immersive journey of aesthetics.
The floor-to-ceiling window opens the space, inviting natural light and the greenery of the streetscape indoors. The spatial narrative unfolds along a curving wall that flows with ease, like a tranquil stream, dividing left and right zones, while connecting front and back. Its smooth surface captures shifting light and shadow, guiding visitors’ steps through the space.
On the left side of the front area, a marble island is the first peep of the concept, mimicking an estuary. The irregularly shaped stone imitates pebbles left behind as water flows across a Tidal Flat. Trees gently sway, the blurred silhouettes filtering through a frosted glass wall, framing a living drawing of light and shadow. The black handcrafted brick tiles softly glimmer in the light, like a damp shoreline revealed as the tide recedes.
On the right side of the front area, a resting place is provided. Clothing pieces are arranged between black rods and transparent glass panels with a sense of lightness and order. At the end, the fitting rooms are wrapped by grass green, forming an idea of an oasis. Following the black handcrafted tile steps into the rear space, the central island extends the idea of Waterfront, functioning as both a bar and a display counter. Overhead, a delicate framework of black metal rods and glass defines an airy structure which acts as a light-capturing vessel.
From Tidal Flats to Bay, from flowing curves to diffused light, every detail resonates with the imagery of “Waterflow”, embodying 7+’s philosophy of transforming imagination into reality. This is not a collection of garments, but a harbor where aesthetics and inspirations converge. While the city’s bustle remains outside, the tranquil bay glimmers within, writing poetry with words of space, and sending emotions with letters of clothing. Say envisions every styled traveler would make a stop here, discovering their personal way of expression.
Team:
Client: 7+
Project Type: Commercial Space
Design Company: say architects
Partner In Charge: Zhang Yan, Shan Jianan
Team: Bao Qianqian
Photography: Wang Minjie
Materials Used:
Lighting Consultation and Support: TRACE Lighting Design, OPPLE LightingSoft
Furniture Supply: Kim Su Hui, 101 Plus
