SHOP.CASE — Jil Sander Ginza
The newly opened Jil Sander flagship in Tokyo’s Ginza district, designed by the architecture firm Casper, Mueller, Kneer, is a testament to the power of materials. CMK came to prominence designing stores for Celine under Phoebe Philo, including its Ginza flagship, whose arresting façade is still one of the premier shopping neighborhood’s attractions. With the Jil Sander store, CMK continues its tradition of letting the materials do the talking. The shop is refreshingly devoid of ornamentation, yet it feels warm and inviting. With their intricate, rich textures, marble, travertine, and concrete become ornaments in themselves. Details like a Dieter Rams classic Braun sound system provide subtle nods to the history of minimalist German design, not unrelated to Jil Sander’s origin. Last but not least, the layout of the shop provides a ton of open space, proving once again that today space is the ultimate luxury.