The German Trade Association has once again recognized the most innovative and creative store concepts with its prestigious "Store of the Year" award. Among this year's winners: the flagship store of optician Bode in Hamburg, which took top honors in the "Out of Line" category. The jury was particularly impressed by the workshop's open design and cutting-edge digital features—including virtual eyewear fitting. Retail design specialists Schwitzke & Partner developed the store concept for this 265 m² space on Jungfernstieg, crafting an environment that authentically expresses Bode's heritage in craftsmanship, brand expertise, and service excellence. The design also incorporates Bode's new corporate identity, also created by Schwitzke. The core challenge was bridging the company's family traditions with modern digital demands—both functionally and aesthetically—while establishing Bode as a welcoming host. Visually, this comes through in a carefully curated material palette: black-stained wood, warm brass accents, and sophisticated grey-blue upholstery and furnishings.

The award honors outstanding store concepts realized within the past year. An expert jury—comprising retail industry leaders—evaluates each store's degree of innovation, experiential impact, exemplary design, and distinctive market positioning. Awards were presented on May 2 at the German Retail Property Congress in Berlin.

www.schwitzke.com

Photography Credits:

Bevis Photography
www.bevisphoto.de

(Featured in CUBE Hamburg 02|22)