Gensler boots up Apple store plan

Apple Computer will open its highly anticipated London flagship store later this year, with architectural and interior designs overseen by architect Gensler.

Although Apple remains tight-lipped on the store’s design ahead of launch, plans seen by Design Week confirm a Regent Street location and provide an indication of the store’s layout.

Planning applications submitted by Gensler show the facia spanning four mosaic-adorned archways in the Grade II-listed building. The apex of each arch will house an internally illuminated Apple logo, according to the blueprint.

Alongside Gensler, San Francisco design consultancy Eight Inc is working on fixtures for the interior of the store and Miami group ISP Design is lighting designer on the project. Bohlin Cywinski Jackson is the associated architect.

Gensler’s Studio 585 division is part of the project team responsible for Apple’s stores throughout the US, again working alongside Eight Inc and Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, as well as Apple’s in-house design team. Gensler’s London office declined to comment on design plans for the London flagship at this stage.

The store’s ‘grand opening’ is rumoured to be set for 20 November, to coincide with the last day of the MacExpo show at the Business Design Centre in London.

Following the launch of the London store, Apple plans to open a second UK shop in Birmingham’s Bullring centre early next year.