During the 1980s, Sottsass challenged conventional aesthetics, introducing vibrant colours, unconventional forms, and a playful amalgamation of materials. In 1986, the American clothing brand Esprit sought to encapsulate this avant-garde spirit in their retail spaces and commissioned Sottsass Associati, the architectural practice Sottsass had founded a year before, to design their flagship store located within Stollwerck Haus, a landmark building in Cologne. The collaboration resulted in an immersive retail environment, and a manifestation of Sottsass’s radical design philosophy, which blurred the lines between art and commerce.
Visitors were greeted by a striking black-and-white speckled terrazzo that extended seamlessly from floor to ceiling, creating a dynamic visual rhythm. This monochromatic palette was punctuated by turquoise glass tiles and laminate surfaces adorned with root wood patterns, offering a rich tapestry of textures and hues. Central to the store’s design was a monumental staircase, conceived by architect Shuji Hisada, which served as both a functional element and a sculptural centrepiece, guiding patrons through the multi-level space. The interior was further animated by unexpected features such as a fountain and a dedicated telephone station equipped with the Yellow Pages, inviting visitors to engage not only with a new and novel retail experience but also positioned the store as a cultural landmark in the city.