Cubitts Manchester: A Contemporary Take on Heritage Design
British eyewear brand Cubitts has recently launched its first store in Manchester, a significant step for the brand as it seeks to deepen its roots in the city. Designed by the local studio Youth, the shop embodies Manchester’s rich industrial and musical history while intentionally steering clear of clichéd representations.
An Interior that Speaks to Manchester’s Heart
The vision of Youth co-founders Oliver Collinge and Liam McGroarty was to create an interior that resonates with both the current vibrancy and future aspirations of Manchester. They sought to weave subtle references to the city’s past throughout the design, resulting in a space that feels both familiar and contemporarily fresh.
The store prominently features a shelving display that combines sleek tubular steel uprights with dapple-textured glass shelves, creating a striking visual effect. Alongside this, a faceted oak counter houses a till and a record player, imbuing the space with a warm, musical atmosphere. The inclusion of figurative sandstone sculptures by artist Richard Perry adds an artistic touch, inviting customers to engage with the art as they browse.
A Homage to Manchester’s Culture
The design philosophy is deeply rooted in Manchester’s culture, echoing its historic character through a modern lens. Designers aimed to comply with the brief provided by Cubitts founder Tom Broughton, who requested a distinctly Cubitts identity without reverting to standard Manchester shorthand.
“It was important that Cubitts Manchester was designed in Manchester, and not just deposited here,” Broughton noted, emphasizing the need for authenticity and connection to the locality. He believes Manchester doesn’t require further external validation of its uniqueness, thus the store aims to integrate seamlessly into the local landscape.
A Historic Location
The choice of location — Smithfield Buildings in the Northern Quarter — is significant. This area was previously home to the Affleck & Brown department store, often referred to as the ‘Harrods of the North’. This rich retail history aligns beautifully with Cubitts’ mission to provide eye examinations, spectacle repairs, and customization options within a space that once catered to bespoke clothing. Broughton remarked, “Smithfield Buildings felt immediately right: a spectacle shop inside a former draper’s department store, in a neighborhood shaped by making, music, and independent trade.”
Thoughtful Design Elements
Youth’s meticulous approach is reflected in various thoughtful design elements throughout the store. Waxed cotton curtains gently divide different areas, paying tribute to Affleck & Brown’s legacy, while vintage furniture items, like a revolving bookcase crafted from salvaged timber from the HMS Foudroyant, enhance the authenticity of the space.
Artworks within the store are also selected with care; for instance, a painting by Francis Hoyland depicting a seamstress and a cubist gouache by Marcel Gille illustrating a forge worker highlight the industrial spirit of Manchester.
Creating an Engaging Customer Experience
Completing the design narrative, dimpled mirrors offer slightly cloudy reflections, contributing to a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Additionally, a curated collection of records spans genres from soul to jazz, punk, and electronica, enhancing the store’s auditory experience while evoking the city’s vibrant musical scene.
A Growing Legacy
Cubitts Manchester marks the brand’s 21st location, following unique designs in other cities such as Soho and Leeds. The store’s opening comes on the heels of Cubitts unveiling a new headquarters in London’s King’s Cross, further establishing its position in the eyewear market.
The synergy between the design, location, and the overarching ethos of Cubitts not only makes for an inviting shopping experience but also encapsulates the essence of Manchester, a city celebrated for its cultural richness and innovation.
The design choices reflect a deeper respect for local history while affirming Cubitts’ commitment to contemporary style and functionality. This nuanced approach presents a fresh narrative for both the brand and the city, inviting visitors to connect with Manchester through the lens of modern eyewear.