Lumsden has designed the shop for the newly refurbished Whitworth Art Gallery in Manchester. Part of the University of Manchester, the Whitworth has undergone a stunning £15 million transformation which has doubled gallery, and created new spaces that embrace the park. The shop designed by Lumsden, is split over two rooms either side of the Central Hall. It showcases an eclectic mix of products sourced from brands, designer makers and artists linked to the gallery. It is a beautiful, calm space where pretty much everything you see, including much of the furniture and cabinets is for sale. A palette of soft greys, white and green accents reflects the Whitworth’s branding which was inspired by the park setting. All the products are short run so the shop is constantly refreshed and surprising to visit, so Lumsden’s scheme has been designed to adapt to change.

A wooden pegboard system clads the walls hiding electrics and acting as a flexible display system. Hanging rails suspended from the ceiling show off textiles. Lumsden has salvaged some of the furniture from the University, such as the freestanding metal shelving and lockers that add an industrial edge. A personal wrapping service, using the exclusive papers sold at the shop, is a unique part of the customer experience, so Lumsden has designed a large bespoke table for one of the rooms. Callum Lumsden, creative director, said: “Whitworth has created an exciting retail offer for visitors, with its constantly changing mix of products. The interior has been designed to be flexible, stylish and to create an environment where shoppers can visualise how the products will work at home.”

Design: Lumsden