Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
Apple has reopened Apple Ginza, once the tech company’s first retail location in Japan, following a complete redesign led by Foster + Partners. Located on Ginza’s main shopping street, Chuo-dori, the new store features a structural grid that supports bespoke facade treatments across four levels.
Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
The lower two floors are wrapped in clear glass, giving pedestrians views of the interior and the movement of lift cars that animate the storefront. The upper levels are enclosed by a double-skin facade fitted with automated louvres that adjust to sunlight, controlling glare and temperature to improve comfort and energy efficiency.
Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
Natural light reaches deep into the interior, where double-height openings between floors improve visual connection and orientation. The interior features warm wooden panelling inspired by traditional Japanese craftsmanship, as well as varied table and seating heights to accommodate all customers. A Genius Bar occupies the fourth floor, while other levels host retail areas and customer services such as Apple Pickup.
Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
At night, the building emits a glow designed to highlight the contrast between the transparent and shaded facade elements. Inside, a sequence of double-height spaces leads visitors through the store, creating what the team describes as a “tranquil oasis” in the busy urban district.
Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
“The building is designed to be environmentally responsive, with a louvre shading system that automatically adapts to changing light conditions throughout the day,” Foster + Partners Head of Studio David Summerfield said about the scheme. “The facade design references traditional Japanese architecture, with clear lower levels to maximise inward and outward views – and diffused upper levels for greater privacy.”
Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
Image credit: Nigel Young / Foster + Partners
The store is one of many designed by Foster + Partners for Apple. Last year, the firm completed a concept store for Apple in Shanghai, while in 2023, the firm unveiled an Apple Store at Battersea Power Station in London. Earlier that year, the firm completed Apple’s first flagship store in India.
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