Apple’s First India Store Features An Intricate 450,000-Piece Timber Ceiling
Fans of Apple products in India can finally visit a local store, as the technology giant recently opened the doors to its first retail flagship within the country—and it’s a sight to behold. Located in Mumbai, Apple BKC makes the most of eco-friendly architecture with its impressive look.
The brand’s usual architects, Foster + Partners, were tasked to create a light-filled outlet using sustainably-sourced or local materials, with the final structure boasting an intricate timber ceiling inspired by the city’s cultural cane and rattan weavers.
Each wooden tile forming the expansive stretch at the top of the building is made from 408 pieces of wood, requiring nearly 450,000 individual pieces in total. Other highlights include two stone walls, trees, and a stainless steel staircase leading visitors to a cantilevered mezzanine.
According to Apple, its Mumbai outlet was designed to be one of its most energy-efficient locations in the world. Running on absolutely no fossil fuels for store operations, the building is fitted with a dedicated solar array for its energy needs.
Within the store, shoppers will be allowed to roam about while experiencing different display tables loaded with the brand’s latest gadgets. Over 100 team members, who speak over 20 languages collectively, are on standby to answer any queries or offer advice.
A second Apple Store is set to open in New Dehli in the coming days.
