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Journalism of Courage
Apple makes one of the bestselling phones, laptops, and tablets in the world, and a big reason behind the success of these products is the experience they offer. Experience is one of the driving forces of Apple, so it isn’t surprising to see that the company’s stores are also designed with that in mind. From floating spheres to historic theatres, solar wings to glass cubes, Apple stores are architectural marvels that showcase the brand’s design ethos and innovation.
And as the company opens its very first store in Mumbai, we take that as an excuse to take you on a tour of some of the most interesting Apple stores across the globe.
Opened in April 2017, Apple’s Dubai Mall store is the largest Apple store in the Middle East and a popular attraction in the city. It is located on the lower level of the Dubai Mall and offers a stunning view of the Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa. Customers can explore the full range of Apple products here and can also join free creative sessions every day to learn new skills and get inspired by local artists and experts.
Opened in December 2017, the Apple Downtown Brooklyn store is almost fully made up of glass on the sides. But despite downtown Brooklyn being in full view from the inside, the store is supposedly relatively quiet due to custom-made floors and ceilings that dampen street noise and reduce ground vibrations. Other features include potted ficus trees and rows of tables and stool chairs where customers can get help from Apple Geniuses.
The Apple SoHo is not just a store, but a historic landmark in New York City. Located at 103 Prince Street, the store was opened in 2002 as the first Apple retail store in the city and the largest at the time. The store occupies a former US Post Office building that dates back to the 1940s. The building was restored by Apple and architects Bohlin Cywinski Jackson, who preserved its original features such as the brick facade, cast-iron columns, and skylights. The store also features a glass staircase, a Genius Bar, and a Forum for hosting creative sessions and events.
Opened in May 2016, Apple Union Square is a flagship store in San Francisco that features a 42-foot tall sliding glass door, a 50-foot green wall, a 6K video wall, and a plaza with public Wi-Fi and acoustic performances. The store offers regular acoustic performances. It’s also powered by 100% renewable energy, with power produced by photovoltaic panels integrated into the building’s roof.
Located in Paris across the street from the famous Opera House, the Apple Opera Store is yet another example of the company adopting architecture that blends technology and culture. The store is housed in a historic building that dates back to the 19th century, and features a grand staircase, a mosaic floor, and a glass roof. Customers can also enjoy the views of the Opera House and the bustling city from the windows.
Apple Seattle’s University Village store is relatively new among others stores on this list, opened in 2018. It replaced an older one, which opened in 2003, with a larger and more modern space. The new store features a forum area for classes and events, a terrazzo porch with teak chairs, and a green roof with plants and bees. The store is designed to be a town-hall feeling where customers can hang out, learn, and shop for Apple products. In a light well inside, there’s even a Japanese maple surrounded by ferns.
Apple’s Grand Central Terminal store is one of the most unique Apple stores, located on one of the busiest and most iconic landmarks in the city. The store is located on the east balcony of the main concourse, overlooking the clock and the trains. It has no doors or windows, blending in with the historic architecture of the station. It offers a full range of Apple products and services, including a Genius Bar, a forum area, and free creative sessions.
The Apple Store Pudong is a stunning architectural marvel in Shanghai, China. It is the first Apple Store in the city, designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson Architecture. The store is located below a circular sunken court, with a large glass cylinder as its entrance. Visitors can enjoy a view of a reflecting pool as they descend to the store on a spiral glass staircase.
