Zazen Bear: A Tranquil Haven in the Heart of Soho

A Multi-Use Concept Shop Fusing Retail, Art, and Meditation

The design of the Zazen Bear store is a testament to the power of organic forms and materials in creating a serene environment. Designed by Pierpaolo Martiradonna, Matteo Falcone, and Francesco Ma, the store echoes the soft curves of the brand's meditative symbol, the Zazen Bear. This plush, stuffed bear sitting in the lotus position acts as a reminder to stop, breathe deeply, and embrace the inner self. The curves and symmetry of the bear became the starting point for a design aimed at generating a calming environment.

As visitors enter the Zazen Bear store, they are greeted by a threshold that mediates between the bustling streets of Soho and a space that fosters serenity, comfort, and meditation. The store's interior features natural materials, including Pietra di Vals for the main floor, natural oil-finished white oak for the yoga studio floor, and hand-painted white oak for all the custom millwork elements, including the curved walls. The vertical grass wall, adorned with plants like philodendron cordatum and marble queen pothos, not only adds a touch of nature but also purifies the air, creating a healthier environment.

The Zazen Bear store spans two floors and covers an area of 350 square meters. The upper level houses the retail space, where visitors can explore a refined environment filled with Zen spirited items. The organic forms and materials create a sense of harmony, allowing visitors to meander and experience nature through the use of materials. For a moment of reprieve from the bustling heart of New York's Soho district, visitors can descend down the gently sloping oak and metal stair to the lower level, where they will discover a meditation and exhibition space.

One of the design challenges faced by the team was mitigating the acoustical exchanges between the stacked and varied programs of the store. To maintain a peaceful environment in the meditation and exhibition space, the team avoided using a complete physical barrier between levels. Instead, kinetic stretch tracks along the stair wall were used to absorb the noise generated on the upper level, ensuring a serene atmosphere below.

The Zazen Bear Flagship store is not only a retail space but also a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and inspiration. By seamlessly integrating retail, art, and meditation, Zazen offers a unique experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul. The synthesis of organic forms, natural materials, and purifying plants creates an atmosphere of peace and harmony, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and embrace their inner selves.

For their exceptional design, the team behind Zazen Bear was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2017. This prestigious award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Zazen Bear store is a testament to the power of design in creating spaces that contribute to a better world.