Only a few weeks after declaring its independence from parent company ASICS, sneaker brand Onitsuka Tiger makes its biggest retail statement in the homeland with a new global flagship store, its biggest worldwide, in the bustling Shinjuku district of Tokyo. The retail space is expansive, measuring no less than 1,837 sqm. 919,337 sq.ft.) spread across four floors of the Shinjuku Takano Building, a late 1960s structure which was, only partially, we believe, the previous longtime home of the Gucci boutique in this part of town. The interior design, created by Milan-based architecture practice Studio Dini Cataldi, also comes a full transformation of the building’s façade, which is now adorned with striking tiger-yellow concrete, conceived with the concept of a monolith standing in a modern city. By combining flat textures with striped textures, it expresses sincerity, rhythm, and precision in the materials, embodying an homage to Japanese craftsmanship and the dynamic urban surrounds of the Japanese capital. The lofty ground floor sees an infusion of black flooring, offset by Giallo Siena, a yellow marble, obviously a nod to Onitsuka Tiger‘s signature colour, which is also captured by plexiglass elements of a series of clean and robust cabinets and shelving units.

Clean lines and tactile material expressions reflect the aesthetics of Japanese design, while the contrast between black and yellow creates a modern and dynamic space. One floor up, a more dynamic and graphical setting unfolds, based on black terrazzo with its distinctive granular texture and yellow accents. Light gives rhythm and depth to the space, expressing the movement that is at the core of the brand. Additionally, the NIPPON MADE section is furnished with pieces inspired by iconic 1970s Italian design. The third floor is a space inspired by tranquility, sophistication, and last but not least, the quiet elegance of Japanese interiors. Here, the use of Rosso Lepanto marble, satin brass, and satin-finished steel creates a refined contrast of materials. Geometric forms and gallery-like displays harmonise to create a space where shoppers can leisurely indulge in the brand’s iconic collections. The top floor is home to Onitsuka Tiger‘s first-ever entertainment area, managed by arcade operator GENDA GIGO, offering shoppers a new kind of store experience. The new Onitsuka Tiger flagship store carries the full range of men’s and women’s shoes, apparel, bags and accessroeis. © superfuture