Art, fashion, and design: 15 concept stores to visit around the world

Since 1980, LECLAIREUR has set the standard for fashion, art, and design, all thanks to the visionary leadership of founders Martine and Armand Hadida. With several locations in Paris, including the renowned Rue Hérold, and one in Los Angeles, it offers a unique experience by seamlessly blending high-fashion apparel with accessories, design, and furniture.

Through regular cultural events, it has established itself as a hub of innovation and creativity in Paris, showcasing renowned brands such as Dries Van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, Maison Margiela, 1017ALYX9SM, and Off-White, while also collaborating with artists and designers on various cultural initiatives. The founders’ vision continues to guide LECLAIREUR on its innovative path, solidifying its position as one of the most influential and respected internationally.

Established in 2004 by Rei Kawakubo, the visionary designer behind Comme des Garçons, and Adrian Joffe, DSM has revolutionized the landscape of fashion and design retail. With stores in London, New York, Tokyo, Singapore, and Beijing, it seamlessly integrates clothing, accessories, jewelry, and design while also serving as a venue for cultural events.

Despite its expansive geographic reach, DSM remains true to its core, with each location embodying a unique aesthetic and distinct curatorial approach. Labeled as a “living museum” of fashion, DSM continually evolves, nurturing creativity and exploration.

Established in 1990 by Carla Sozzani, who was already renowned in the fashion world and sister to Franca Sozzani from Vogue Italia, 10 Corso Como stands as a revolutionary symbol in Milan. Designed by artist Kris Ruhs, it has evolved into an iconic destination for “slow shopping,” fundamentally reshaping the concept of retail. Over time, additional locations have emerged in cities like Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai, New York, and Taipei, thanks to collaborations with Comme Des Garçons.

In 2020, the acquisition of 10 Corso Como by Tiziana Fausti marked the dawn of a new era. Currently led by 2050+ and architect Ippolito Pestellini Laparelli, the concept store is undergoing a transformation, both in identity and physical space, expanding its cultural program with initiatives involving professionals from diverse sectors, including designers, artists, and botanists.

Opened in 2013 by Anaïs Lafarge, Romain Joste, and Guillaume Steinmetz, The Broken Arm on Rue Perrée is an elegant and minimalist concept store that through its name pays homage to the work of Marcel Duchamp.
Combining their passions for fashion, music, art, and cuisine, the trio successfully crafted a unique space that swiftly became a Parisian landmark. Boasting a curated selection of approximately 40 brands, including Raf Simons, Comme des Garçons, and Marine Serre, it stands out for its attention to detail. The tranquil atmosphere of The Broken Arm Café has made it a cherished gathering place for the neighborhood’s creatives.

In the heart of Berlin’s lively Kreuzberg district lies Voo Store, a cultural cornerstone established in 2010 by brothers Kaan and Yasin Müjdeci. Spanning 300 square meters, the store, once a blacksmith’s workshop, retains a connection to its origin through architect Sigurd Larsen’s preservation of its original walls.

Voo Store isn’t just a shop: it mirrors Berlin’s innovative spirit, drawing an international clientele. In 2014, Herbert Hofmann, buyer and creative director, described Voo Store’s selection criteria as “a representation of our life choices rather than an invitation to consumerism.” The Companion Coffee within the store offers excellent coffee blends and homemade baked goods.

Founded in 2006 by Arnault Castel, Kapok swiftly rose to prominence as a cultural focal point in Hong Kong, initially specializing in apparel, accessories, design, and books. With six locations scattered across the island, each boasting its own unique concept, Kapok is renowned for its commitment to quality craftmanship, creative design, cultural events, and workshops. It also stands out for its notable dedication to sustainable and innovative design.

The brand’s second flagship store in Wan Chai, product of the merger of two prior establishments, epitomizes Kapok’s essence. Its sleek, minimalist aesthetic and plywood accents embody the brand’s distinct identity, showcasing a curated selection of high-end fashion labels such as Maison Kitsuné and Margaret Howell. Additionally, a dedicated section featuring eco-friendly products and natural cosmetics highlights Kapok’s continual evolution and adaptability.

Launched in 2011 by Rachel Shechtman and located on 10th Ave in Manhattan, STORY is a unique concept store that blends the features of a store with those of a magazine and an art gallery. It is an emblematic example of how retail can adapt to changing times, creating a solid link between the concept store and the local community. Every three to eight weeks, STORY gets a complete makeover, changing design and product assortment to explore new themes and trends.

Shechtman sees STORY’s physical space as a true creative medium, capable of generating innovative content to meet customers’ changing needs. The goal is to create unique experiences, which cannot be replicated online, turning the in-store visit into a moment of pleasure and socialization. STORY collaborates with small companies such as Procter & Gamble, for example, introducing free hot shaving stations to directly engage customers.

Opened in 2010, I.T Beijing Market is the result of a collaboration between I.T and Comme des Garçons, under the creative leadership of Rei Kawakubo. Located in Sanlitun Village in the Chaoyang District, this 19,000-square-meter concept store spanning four floors has revolutionized the luxury retail landscape in Asia. The store features all 15 Comme des Garçons lines, as well as a curated selection of international designers personally selected by Kawakubo. 

The ground floor is dedicated to Japanese streetwear brand A Bathing Ape (BAPE), rounding out the offerings with a unique mix of styles and trends. I.T Beijing Market also houses a small café and a home goods boutique, similar to those found in London’s Dover Street Market. The space regularly hosts art exhibitions, launches of new collections, and collaborations with artists and designers.

Opened in 2000 by brothers Cha Kyung-ja and Cha Seung-jae, Boon the Shop has become an institution in the world of luxury and design. This concept store offers haute couture clothing, accessories, and design items, and it is renowned for its cultural events and contemporary art exhibitions. Notably, it hosted an exhibition dedicated to Thai relational artist Rirkrit Tiravanija, engaging customers in interactive art experiences.

Designed by the New York-based architecture firm Lo-Tek, the exterior design of the building features a combination of marble surfaces, contrasting with the cozy and intimate atmosphere created by wood and soft lighting inside. Spanning three floors, the store is illuminated by natural light through large windows. Boon the Shop’s philosophy is based on concepts such as “modern,” “timeless,” “originality,” and “authenticity,” respecting tradition and quality craftsmanship while also promoting emerging brands.

Founded in December 2007 by Roma and Erika Cohen, Alchemist merges art, fashion, and culture in Miami’s vibrant scene. Located on the fifth floor of the 1111 Lincoln Road parking garage, the boutique was conceived by architect Rene Gonzalez as a work of art where architecture, fashion, design, and art harmoniously interact. Alchemist offers collections from world-renowned designers such as Haider Ackermann, Ann Demeulemeester, and Celine, featuring a selection of unique sartorial pieces sourced from Paris, Tokyo, New York, London, and Los Angeles.

In 2010, Alchemist opened its second space, known as “the showroom.” In addition to fashion, it has established strong ties with contemporary art, design, and prominent studios and galleries, hosting installations like “Mercury” by rAndom–International and events such as the Art Basel Garage Party.

Andreas Murkudis, a prominent figure in the Berlin art scene, has transformed a former printing house into a concept store that attracts enthusiasts of fashion, design, and home decor. Located in the Tiergarten district and redesigned by the architects Gonzalez Haase, the space challenges conventions, blurring the lines between an art gallery and a boutique.

Murkudis carefully combines fashion and design, selecting brands like Dries Van Noten and The Row, alongside design objects by masters such as Ettore Sottsass and David Chipperfield, displayed in a dedicated space within its 220 square meters. Furthermore, Murkudis provides interior design services for clients’ homes, thanks to a team composed of designers, architects, and artists.

After the success of Haus Dosan in Seoul, Gentle Monster has brought to Shanghai’s commercial heart a hybrid space that combines retail and hospitality to offer a “sensory” shopping experience. Following the theme “Unopened: Future,” HAUS Shanghai spans multiple floors, each with its own distinctive identity. The first floor, dedicated to Nudake, features artistic and experimental desserts, enhanced by kinetic installations and artworks. 

The second floor, the largest Gentle Monster store in the world, challenges traditional retail conventions with flexible structures and a layout centered around the theme “Circulation.” The third floor houses a spacious exhibition area with multimedia art exhibitions and collaborations, including “The Giant Who Arrived at the Bird Village,” a gigantic robotic face. Lastly, on the fourth floor, Tamburins’ inaugural flagship store in China offers a refined aesthetic for fragrance enthusiasts.

Founded by Vanessa Traina and Morgan Wendelborn, The Apartment by The Line offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in a space that is both showroom and home, where every element within it – from the furnishings to the objects contained in the furniture – is for sale. Here, eclectic aesthetics meet design and rare vintage pieces. Located both in New York and Los Angeles, The Apartment by The Line was designed by Carl Sprague, known for his collaboration with Wes Anderson. The interior is divided into a living and sleeping area, illuminated by Atelier de Troupe and enriched by design details by Fritz Hansen. Every element of the loft is designed to inspire: from Proenza Schouler creations placed in the closet to Moroccan rugs and beauty products displayed in the bathroom. Robert Mapplethorpe’s artwork is also for sale, further enhancing The Apartment by The Line’s status as a unique shopping sanctuary far from the hustle and bustle of traditional boutiques.

Created to promote and support local designers and founded by Julia and Renata Franco, Albergue Transitorio has become an authentic incubator of the Mexican creative spirit, boasting more than 60 brands and designers, including names such as Anndra Neen and Jose Davila. 

With unwavering dedication, the founders have transformed Albergue Transitorio into a place where fashion, contemporary art, jewelry, and interior design intertwine, both aesthetically and conceptually, under the artistic curatorship of Ana Elena Mallet.

This space regularly transforms into an event venue for biennials and exhibitions, attracting art and design professionals and enthusiasts. Its influence extends well beyond Guadalajara through significant collaborations, including participation in prestigious events such as Art Basel in Miami.

In the heart of Londrina, Paraná, Brazil, lies the Folio Concept Store, an architectural and design project by archi.lab studio. Created by Maira Rossi and Karen Felix, the space is the perfect destination for lovers of art, architecture, and design. The customer experience it offers follows the experience lab project of lab.o, entity that collaborates with the brands. The atmosphere radiates warmth and tranquility, crafted through a palette of soft, muted tones that eschew stark contrasts.

Natural elements, a carefully selected range of furniture, and art objects embody the Store’s philosophy, that is to merge the art of everyday living with design in an environment that echoes the familiarity and warmth of a home. A distinctive architectural element is the metal spiral staircase that connects the two floors of the showroom. Beyond its functional purpose, it symbolizes the “immersive” experience awaiting visitors.