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Founded by Kihachiro Onitsuka in 1949, ASICS is a Japanese company specialising in sporting attire and equipment for men, women and children that boast a high set of technological skills in innovation and ideas that promise to provide the athletic gear bodies need and require. I plan to focus on the footwear area of ASICS retail with an industrial design relevant to the site’s context with the aim of suiting all types of athlete. In my design I want to include digital and sustainable elements in order to inspire and captivate consumers. A legacy inspired by Mr. Onitsuka.
The local demographic is mostly students, since the University is practically adjacent. The HUBS is central for sporting meet ups, and there are severall gyms within the area; ideal for a sporting shop to be located within the area. The fact that only air vents adorn the walls was an exciting challenge where interior lighting must be well manipulated to ameliorate the space. On the other hand, I considered the idea that alterations to the structure could add new means of light to the interior. The substation has an element of industrial charm that can relate to the existing style of the ASICS brand.
Located on a one-way street beside the Sheffield Hallam University HUBS is a Substation on Charles Street; a four wall brick build with slate gable roof. Within proximity to the site, there are multiple significant structures, including the Sheffield Hallam University, Showroom Cinema & Workstation Gallery and a number of dining locations. Future builds within the area include a residential and commercial site along Charles Street and a University build adjacent. On site parking is available, and a short 5 minute walk away is the Sheffield Train Station & Tram Network, followed by the Bus and Coach Station.
SITE PHOTOS
Primary Research
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ASICS
Project Status: Location: Client:
Completed Charles Street, Sheffield Asics
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MOODBOARDS
Inspiration & Initial Concept
TEXT
Exterior Seating
Family-Friendly
Key Space Features
Leading from the brightly coloured strips of paint, a bench forms at the exterior of the store to simply act as a welcome to those passing by. By inviting them to take a rest from their activity, it is apparent that this piece of furniture acts as a symbol of reflection; that it is alright to rest in order to clear your mind and continue afterwards. The shape is inspired by the trapezoid window display of another ASICS store, which solely because the inspiration for the extension along the building.
The point of sale desk features a full 1000mm high counter with lower accessible desk and a collection of iPads for personalised and independent checkout. The counter also stores running and trail accessories within the frosted glass cabinet. A timber beam acts as a full length pendant light over the concrete and glass counter.
TEXT
FURNITURE
Fittings with flair
THE PLAN
Overview
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