Pop up store YEK in Shanghai: a retail experience for kids
In the bustling commercial scene of Shanghai, YEK launches a pop up store with an experiential design, tailored for kid slashers — children with diverse interests and hybrid identities. Designed by Say Architects, the project redefines the shopping experience by turning it into a playful, interactive, and surprising journey.
The “/” symbol becomes narrative and functional design
At the heart of the concept is the “/” symbol, elevated to an architectural and narrative element. It takes shape as a slim, flexible metal pipe that weaves through the space like a three-dimensional graphic stroke. Its curves echo rollercoasters, generating a dynamic and immersive setting that sparks children’s imagination.
Each bend in the pipe serves a purpose: it becomes display counters, clothing racks, and even fitting rooms. The design thus gains symbolic value, reflecting the twists and turns of childhood growth — full of steep climbs and unexpected paths.
Say Architects creates a creative and interactive playground
Handcrafted with care, the metal pipe ensures expressive freedom and high-quality craftsmanship. The central clothing racks, inspired by rollercoaster-like curves, offer functional slots for neat product display. Mobile tablets placed throughout the space let young visitors explore outfit combinations and interact with the collection.
The store is located in the atrium of a shopping mall, a ceiling-free environment that allows natural light to flood in. To enhance this openness, Say Architects designed a curved aluminum grid structure that houses artificial lighting discreetly and complements the architecture. Metallic surfaces, a bold blue floor, and a clean spatial layout complete the contemporary identity of the pop up store.
A playground for imagination
Inside the pop up store YEK in Shanghai, design merges with play. The metal “/” pipe is not just a visual motif but a metaphor for childhood’s evolving journey. Each curve encourages exploration, each intersection fuels creativity. With this space, Say Architects invites young visitors to experience retail as a continuous adventure — filled with self-expression, energy, and wonder.
Location: Grand Gateway 66, Shanghai
Area: 65 sqm
Design: Say Architects
Partner in charge: Zhang Yan, Shan Jianan
Team: Sun Ziyi (Project Manager), Jiao Xinyue
Photo credit: Wang Minjie