Ralph Lauren Flagship Store, Moscow
Project Type:
Retail Store
Year:
2007
Architect
Gregory Tuck Architecture
Location:
Moscow, Russia
The Ralph Lauren Flagship Store in Moscow, Russia, designed by Gregory Tuck Architecture, is a prominent retail project located in the historic Tretyakovsky Passage near Red Square. Completed in 2007, this 9,000 square foot store is housed in a building dating back to the 1870s, making it a significant architectural endeavor due to its historic context.
The design concept for the Ralph Lauren Moscow store was inspired by Russia's rich architectural heritage while maintaining the distinctive Ralph Lauren aesthetic. The store’s interior reflects the opulence of Imperial Russia with luxurious materials and detailed craftsmanship. This blend of styles aims to create a unique shopping experience that honors both the brand’s identity and the local architectural traditions.
The materials used in the store are a testament to its luxurious design. The floors are crafted from honed French limestone with black marble insets, while custom display fixtures are finished in antique silver. The decorative plaster moldings include intricate designs of ropes, wreaths, and festoons, enhancing the store’s grandeur. A custom wrought iron and glass elevator, encircled by a limestone staircase with a wrought iron railing, serves as a central architectural feature.
Unique design elements include the high vaulted ceilings on the ground floor, the arched doorways with custom antique silver frames, and the thematic division of the store's floors. The ground floor is dedicated to accessories, the second floor to women’s apparel with a lighter and more feminine palette, and the third floor to men’s apparel with rich, masculine woodwork. This strategic layout enhances the shopping experience, guiding customers through different sections of the store seamlessly.
One of the main challenges faced during the renovation was the irregular floor plan caused by years of additions and modifications to the historic building. The architectural team addressed this by creating distinct rooms that align with Ralph Lauren’s traditional style. Additionally, the longitudinal structural wall within the space was cleverly used as an organizing element to structure the layout of each floor.
The Ralph Lauren Flagship Store in Moscow has had a significant impact since its opening. It created a local sensation, achieving record sales and establishing a strong presence for Ralph Lauren in the Russian market. The store's design not only serves as a retail space but also as a cultural landmark that bridges American luxury with Russian architectural elegance.