The Architecture of Fashion Shows and Stores Short Course

Course description

From Zaha Hadid to Rem Koolhaas and Virgil Abloh, many contemporary architects and designers have found in fashion the creative freedom and a testing ground to examine and materialise their ideas. Architecture can stage fashion and the process of making of fashion by providing a theatrical experience, whether it is through a store or a fashion show; merging culture and commerce to respond to the needs, trends and identity of contemporary society.

During 10-weeks you will explore the foundations of the spaces dedicated to fashion with a focus on retail design and fashion shows. An opportunity to gain essential skills for creating narratives, designing powerful experiences that attract wide audiences, and conceiving impactful spatial designs for fashion stores and shows.

The course is structured in two parts covering fashion store and fashion show designs. Each part runs for five weeks, combining practical face-to-face design assignments and live tutorials (Saturdays) with online lectures by guest tutors, introducing the history of these fields and contemporary case studies (Wednesdays). Working in small groups, you will be guided through the process of designing a conceptual design for a fashion retail store and a fashion show, making use of physical models, collages, drawings, and other materials to communicate and develop your ideas. This will leave with a strong foundation and the confidence to continue further studies in these fields.

The practical exercises and live tutorials will be combined with online lectures from architects and designers working for high profile fashion labels, and seminars introducing a historical overview of the close relationship between architecture and fashion.

Please note, this course will have a blended format and will take place on campus and online between the following days throughout:

Wednesdays 6pm - 8pm Online

Saturdays 10am - 2pm at Central Saint Martins, Granary Square

Who should attend?

Level of experience: intermediate (students) and advanced (professionals)

This course is designed for creatives with previous knowledge and interest in the spatial qualities connecting architecture and fashion.

An excellent fit for individuals with architecture, interior design, or stage design background with an interest in fashion who aspire to work in this sector and want to gain an insight into the history and basic principles for designing retail stores and create fashion show.

Students should have previous knowledge on using digital software such as AutoCad.

By the end of the course, students should:

• Understand the historical background and contemporary trends for fashion store and show design

• Learn the basic principles for designing a fashion store and show

• Create the essential visual documents to present your designs

• Develop essential spatial design and narrative building skills

• Understand the marketing and commerce needs of a fashion company • Clearly communicate your ideas and design to a broad audience