This store used to be part of a corridor — a high-traffic thoroughfare connecting a pedestrian mall to a downtown Christchurch street. For the client, a sustainably minded consignment clothing retailer, repurposing a chunk of it into a new store aligned perfectly with their environmental ethos.

A dividing wall was built to reclaim the space. As it was to be an entirely new tenancy, visibility was key, so large stretches of the external walls were constructed from glazing to allow a clear view line through the shop. Addressing a dichotomy of the brief — to retain Recycle Boutique's youthful energy while attracting an older demographic — the design embraces the company’s 'playful and free' nature while elevating the experience with a more structured, formal space.

The store revolves around an oversized central counter. Wrapped in recycled plastic sheets made from melted-down plastic bottles, the mottled material echoes across seats and display plinths throughout the space. Repurposed clothing racks and rice paper light shades were also incorporated to minimise waste; these new and old elements unified with a fresh, soft-pastel interior palette.