Burton Chengdu: A Sustainable Design Landmark

Revolutionizing Retail Space with Recycled Materials and Snowboarding Inspiration

The design of Burton Chengdu was inspired by the sport of snowboarding, with the aim of conveying the brand's message of 'People, Planet, Sports'. The design team took the bold step of using wasted construction materials from the previous tenant and damaged gears supplied by Burton to create the store's facade. This innovative approach not only reduced waste but also created a unique aesthetic that resonates with the brand's ethos.

One of the unique features of the design is its dual-world concept. The design team strived to create a space that caters to both retail needs and the space itself, enhancing the shopping experience for visitors and creating a unique memory that strengthens the relationship between the brand and its customers. The result is a space that embodies the brand's spirit of passion and sustainability.

The realization of this design was a meticulous process that involved a deep concern for environmental issues. The team recreated the workshop of Jake Burton, the founder of Burton and the promoter of snowboarding, by combining Chinese traditional mortise tenon structure with modern industrial materials. This blend of wood and metal builds the skeleton of the workshop, symbolizing the interaction between nature and industry, tradition and innovation, and past and future.

The design team faced several challenges in bringing this design to life. One of the most significant was the creation of the sustainable facade material. After several trials, they found a solution that involved leaving micro spaces open on the surfaces to absorb water quickly. The result is a facade that is not only sustainable but also waterproof.

The project, which started in May 2022 in Chengdu, China, and finished in December 2022, is now a landmark in the In99 Shopping Mall in Chengdu. The design team, which included Bonnie Liao, Lisa Liu, and Pavel Zhu, conducted extensive research on snowboarding, the founder of the brand, and local elements to create a design that is truly unique and reflective of the brand's values.

In conclusion, Burton Chengdu is a testament to the power of sustainable design and the potential of retail spaces to convey a brand's message and ethos. The design, which was awarded the Golden A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2023, is a shining example of how design can be used to create a stronger relationship between a brand and its customers while also making a positive impact on the environment.