Housed in Westfield Stratford, SAY and Ara Design Ltd’s concept for the UMAI store’s second branch successfully fuses the shopping centre’s vision for a rustic ambience with UMAI’s oriental, light and modern branding. Westfield’s project management team, who selected the main finishes, envisioned a ‘Great Eastern Market’ concept for the space; a hot and cold food retail area inspired by traditional East London street markets.

Within a challenging budget and programme, as well as strict design guidelines set by Westfield,

S&Y Architects and Ara Design Ltd’ delivered a scheme inspired by Japanese street markets; an idea reflected in the store’s layout, as well as the choice of materials, fixtures and furniture. Fresh food is prepared on a kitchen island, which creates a theatrical backdrop and focal point around which shopping takes place.