The Maksu Store, the brand’s second location, designed by Ciszak Dalmas studio from Madrid, introduces a new chapter for the brand on London’s King’s Road.

Located in a renovated Georgian townhouse, a historic British residential building typology dating from the 18th to early 19th century, it is characterised by its brick façade, symmetrical proportions and sash windows, within the Chelsea neighbourhood. Set along one of the city’s most established retail streets, the store positions itself among a growing ecosystem of niche independent fashion brands.

The rhythm of the interior is defined by its spatial distribution. Rather than revealing itself all at once, the store unfolds gradually, encouraging visitors to move through distinct zones that remain partially hidden upon entry. This sense of discovery is central to the design, transforming the act of shopping into a layered journey through the space. At the centre of this experience is the statement staircase leading to the second floor. Conceived as a sculptural centrepiece, it anchors the interior both visually and spatially. The space recalls the intimacy of certain spiritual and contemplative interiors found in Istanbul during the research field trip by Ciszak Dalmas, subtly echoing the meditative calm associated with Turkish cultural traditions, a quiet reference to the brand’s origins. As the brand’s founder Mehmet Aksu reflects, “Every Maksu store is a reflection of our values: quiet, considered and deeply personal.”

Lighting plays a key role in shaping the atmosphere. The space features Ambrosia, a pendant light fixture designed by Ciszak Dalmas together with Joan Gaspar and manufactured by Marset in Barcelona. In its vertical configuration, three light tubes are arranged at varying heights to form a sculptural composition.

Materiality defines the interior from the moment of entry. At street level, the walls are finished in limewash paint. Racks and mirrors are made from solid black iron with a hammered finish. The timber flooring is engineered oak in a darker medium tone, chosen to match the stain of the restored ceiling. The staircase emerges as a pivotal architectural gesture. Finished in pistachio stucco, it mirrors the treatment of the first floor walls. Beyond circulation, it creates a rhythmic transition from the open ground floor to the more private upper level, reinforcing the store’s sense of discovery.

During construction, the original roof was uncovered and carefully reintroduced into the project. This restored layer brings a renewed sense of temporality, creating a quiet dialogue between past and present. The bespoke furniture pieces are produced by a local carpentry workshop in solid oak and finished with ALPI California Burl surface. The space is completed with unique pieces sourced from selected London based dealers, including The Peanut Vendor, Ancien et Jolie and Studio 125, creating a layered mix of historical character and thoughtfully curated design.

Maksu Chelsea reflects a thoughtful approach to contemporary retail design, where spatial rhythm, the retooling of existing architectonic elements and crafted details come together to support a slower, more engaging experience.

Team:

Design: Ciszak Dalmas

Photographer: Nic Ford