Andrew Rizzo Nike’s first stateside Jordan Brand concept store is in the works. Philadelphia will be the first American city graced by the Jumpman’s “World of Flight” theme, as documents submitted to the Philadelphia Historical Commission uncover Nike’s plans to transform a 1921, 7,000 square foot building into a beacon for sneaker and apparel shopping.
The storefront will be located at 1617 Walnut St. in the city’s Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, just a few blocks from City Hall among a variety of other fashion and footwear retailers.
In a letter to the city, architect Michael Kouvaris states: “The aim is to maintain the original character of the facade and integrate slight updates to the design details, as well as upgrade some things for better functionality. The design references the history through the details, such as the central façade arch extruded to create a portal from the outside world to the world of flight. The portal, which is one of the design elements of World of Flight, has been modified to complement the existing architectural language and highlights the proportions of the original arched form.”
Early mock-ups showcase timeless modifications to the structure’s original architecture, preparing the space for 21st century retail without watering down the building’s historical aura. While there’s still lots to be done before doors officially open, this news comes as a welcome development for Jordan Brand fans in Philadelphia and throughout the world.
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- Jordan Brand “World Of Flight” Philadelphia Store Mock-up MBH Architects
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- Jordan Brand “World Of Flight” Philadelphia Store Mock-up MBH Architects
