Arc'teryx Flagship Store Feature Wall

In crafting a feature wall integrated with hidden drawers, cubbies and closets for Arc'teryx's flagship store in Soho, we embraced the challenge of transforming a loose concept into a prominent visual centerpiece.

In concert with the Arc’teryx team, we developed a design that harmonized natural materials with a unique storytelling approach. In using Western Hemlock, a wood native to the Pacific Northwest, we grounded the design in the ethos and origin of the Arc'teryx brand.

The design process involved extensive collaboration with Arc’teryx to conceptualize a fresh interpretation of British Columbia’s landscape. Moving away from more traditional maps, we sought to abstract the concept of topography through multiple layers of information: terrain, urban and water textures, and natural rock striations. As a reference to water’s power to shape the landscape, we created a script in Grasshopper simulating its cascading flow which became the CNC drive curves that carved the solid wood.

When incorporating the Arc'teryx logo into the design, we developed a technique that allowed the logo to emerge seamlessly from the surrounding ‘terrain’, creating an interplay with the carved topographic lines. By pocketing out the logo and running a chamfer bit along the ridges to create a 45-degree cut, we achieved a smooth blend between the scooped and flat areas, ensuring a clean look and feel.

Following CNC-milling, each piece was then meticulously hand-sanded, particularly important because of the intricate, layered nature of the design. This labor-intensive process ensured a level of quality that machine sanding could not replicate.

A critical aspect of our approach was understanding the limitations of the material, especially given the soft nature of Western Hemlock. We had to be mindful of milling and screw depths to prevent warping or splitting, especially as the strength of the wood could potentially exceed that of the metal backing. With a clear understanding of these constraints, we designed around the necessary hardware, such as hinges and door pulls.