Anthropologie | Tunbridge Wells | 2019
Individual, but Anthropologie…
In 2019, AMD designed seven bespoke stores across the UK for American lifestyle retailer, Anthropologie. Used to occupying huge spaces in the US, our brief for Tunbridge Wells was to prove that the Anthropologie brand could exist in smaller spaces. We were also tasked with embracing the many architectural styles found in the building, which had an interesting and mixed past.
Image credit: Getty Images
Part of the space was originally a Tudor lodge – once used by visitors of the nearby spa. Later, in what was essentially the front garden, a grand Victorian building was erected. Then, during the early 20th century, the two buildings were connected, creating an unusual space with different floor levels. The frontage and interior finishes were then replaced in the 1920’s, which was the overall look we decided to amplify in the interior design.
Structurally, first we needed to unify the ground and first floors. We then removed false ceilings, false walls and removed integrated cupboards to maximise every inch of space possible. To bring natural light to darker corners, we opened up the staircase and refurbished an existing skylight, allowing light to flood through to the ground floor.
“Our brief was to embrace the architectural styles of this very unique building.”
Andrew Martin – Founder, AMD
During our ‘strip back and restore’ process, we revealed an original stone facade to the spa lodge. This created an impactful arch entrance to a separate room, which we earmarked for selling loungewear. We also exposed some original Tudor brick work and Victorian timber floors, creating a textured and authentic feel to the space.
Image credit: Getty Images
All fixtures were designed and made by AMD. We used mixed materials of raw steel, brass, plywood and solid oak to add a modern twist to the finish. Furniture in the space is Antropologies own, whilst we sourced LED lighting from Iguzzini.