As one of the leading depositories of activewear and sportswear in Kyiv, it’s no surprise that PULSE has a retail space of its own to match. A little while ago, the retailer inaugurated a design-led store on the ground floor of a sizeable apartment complex with two 24-storey towers in the city’s Solomyanskyi district. Measuring no less than 185 sqm. (1,991 sq.ft.) spread across two levels, the PULSE store sees an interior design by local practice Sobchenkó Architects. Using an understated palette of only concrete and polished metal, the chosen aesthetic not only signals the dynamic of sports, but also allows the materials effortlessly speak for themselves. That said, the choice for these materials also also encompasses lifestyle, mood, and context, especially considering the current situation in Ukrainian capital. Interestingly, the PULSE acknowledges this by integrating a Military Zone into its space. Here, genuine 120mm ammunition crates are used as shoe stands as a testament to the impact on lives of Ukrainians nationwide.

A so-called Green Zone, situated below the stairs, features a mini garden with succulents, aloe, and cacti, in addition to a flanking strip of Zen-like rocks, pebbles and greens, which tie in with similar sections on this floor. Strategically placed slabs of mirrors optically enlarge the premises while a prominently visible rack of sports water bottles as gifts for new customers shows PULSE‘s knack for both client engagement and marketing. The mezzanine floor, comprising an intricate all-metal construction, is even more minimalist. The uncluttered setting features a backdrop of a concrete ceiling, flooring and grey wall panels, paired with steel shelving and clothing racks, and last but not least, backlit low displays paired with more voluminous mirror-clad equivalents. The PULSE store carries activewear, sportswear, shoes, bags and accessories by a curated selection of leading brands, including Nanamica, On, The North Face, Oakley, BEAMS and Nike.