The Compartés flagship store in Los Angeles represents a refined example of chocolate shop design, where materials, layout, and display systems define a highly recognizable retail space. Located in Westfield Century City, the project reflects the brand identity through a carefully constructed spatial language.
Designed by Kelly Wearstler, the store reinterprets early 20th-century chocolate shops through a contemporary approach, combining historical references with a strong material presence. The project can be framed within the broader context of food retail design, where spatial composition supports both product display and brand perception.
Materials and identity in chocolate shop design
Within a compact 40 sqm space, the project employs a layered palette of materials including patinated copper, polished marble, brass, glass, onyx, wood, and plaster. This combination creates a dense and textured environment, where each surface contributes to the identity of the store.
The exterior façade and display window, finished in emerald-toned patinated copper, play a central role in visual communication. These elements enhance product visibility and reinforce the distinctive character of the retail space.
Surfaces and integration between front and back of house
Interior walls are hand-finished and combined with decorative ceramic tiles and a geometric wooden installation integrated into the space. This system of surfaces creates visual continuity while reinforcing the spatial identity of the project.
A concealed door connects the retail area to the production space, where final chocolate preparation takes place. This relationship between front and back of house maintains the centrality of the product while supporting operational efficiency.
Custom furniture and retail display systems
Custom-designed furniture in brass and wood integrates operational and display functions. The central counter organizes product presentation through glass domes and structured display elements, becoming the focal point of the layout.
Direct chocolate dispensing systems introduce a functional layer that enhances interaction with the product, while remaining consistent with the brand identity.
Lighting design and spatial perception
The lighting system, based on suspended fixtures, enhances marble and brass surfaces while guiding the perception of the space. Light defines focal points and contributes to the overall atmosphere, supporting both product visibility and material expression.
The Compartés store demonstrates how chocolate shop design can integrate materials, layout, and lighting into a coherent retail environment, where brand identity and product presentation are closely connected.
Location Los Angeles, USA
Design Kelly Wearstler
Brand Compartés