In collaboration with Avolta, a global leader in travel retail, and the innovative sneaker retailer Presentedby, architecture studio External Reference designed and delivered a pioneering 24-hour airport store at Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi. This project redefines the future of travel retail by merging sustainability, advanced technology, and immersive spatial storytelling in one of the region's busiest international transit hubs.
Located in one of the airport's most luxurious zones, the 210 m² space is conceived as an oasis within the fast-paced airport environment. Drawing inspiration from the desert and the life-giving presence of water, the store offers a sensory retreat, a moment of serenity between journeys.
Water is interpreted not only as a natural element, but as a narrative and design tool. It guides the spatial language, flowing through every element of the store from floor to ceiling. At the center stands a sculptural installation that evokes a cascading fountain, created with 3D-printed, organically shaped panels. These panels are made from 70% recycled post-industrial PET-G and fabricated through additive manufacturing.
The use of circular design principles, modular components, cradle-to-cradle techniques, and low-waste production supports Avolta's vision for a more sustainable retail future. All cladding is designed for easy disassembly, reuse, and recycling, making the store adaptable and environmentally responsible.
The space integrates digital technology at multiple levels. A series of dynamic digital waterfalls frame the entrance, welcoming travelers with a visual spectacle that reflects the fluidity of water. Lighting is embedded into the architecture to enhance the organic forms and shift the atmosphere throughout the day. Deep navy reflective floors and curved surfaces in vibrant hues further enhance the sense of immersion, enveloping visitors in a calming, yet futuristic environment.
This project is the latest evolution of a long-standing creative partnership between External Reference and Presentedby, with Avolta amplifying the reach and ambition of the concept. The collaboration showcases how cross-disciplinary innovation can elevate the airport retail experience from transactional to experiential.
More than a store, Presentedby Abu Dhabi is a prototype for a new kind of commercial space, one that responds to place, speaks to global culture, and commits to environmental stewardship. It embodies Avolta's strategic commitment to sustainability, technological integration, and curated retail narratives at the highest level.
