With roots based firmly in the world of skateboarding, Supreme’s ability to filter aspects of street counter culture into every collection has, over the last 16 years, made the brand a true Downtown New York institution.

Wilson Brothers and Brinkworth were appointed to collaborate on the design of the London store, Supreme’s first and only European store.

The brief: to create a modest, practical concept while drawing parallels to the brand’s existing stores in the US and Japan.

The London store is set over two levels. The basement level boasts the largest footprint and it was decided to make this the main trading area.

Unusually, the decision was made to make the basement the main trading area while the stockroom and back-of-house facilities are located on the ground floor. In addition, a substantial section of the ground floor has been cut back to allow for a double height void, making the basement feel airy.

The design team have chosen utilitarian and almost humble materials for the walls and furniture, contrasted by a premium herringbone parquet floor laid throughout the store.

The upper floors of the building are residential, so to overcome noise issues, the ceiling has been clad in soundproofing panels.

A galvanised steel staircase invites customers downstairs, whilst a simple balustrade made of galvanised uprights creates a balcony around the void.

Mark Gonzales the pioneering skateboarder and renowned artist, was commissioned to create two sculptures for the store. One of these large bird-like sculptures greets customers on their descent as it hovers in the void, the other, slightly smaller, bird is positioned on the basement floor below.

In the basement, which is reserved for apparel, the collaborators designed bespoke display furniture, including galvanised steel hanging rails that reference skate-able street furniture in their appearance. Also situated on this level is a ‘not for sale’ exhibit of Supreme’s famed artist-series skate decks.

Upstairs, houses the cash desk and skate equipment, with Supreme’s current collection of graphic skateboard decks displayed on the balcony wall. In addition on the back wall of this ground floor space, photographer Ari Marcopoulious has clad the wall in a ‘paste up’ installation of his celebrated photographs of skateboarders.

Supreme, 2 / 3 Peter Street, London, W1F 0AA

Photography by Louise Melchior
Video by Brinkworth