In September 2004, Lewis & Hickey completed the first M&S Lifestore project in Gateshead. Externally, the building envelope reads as a simple, windowless, white box, wrapped in a red cloister of cedar cladding. The impact of the inward nature and sheer scale of the 8,000sq m space is further emphasised by an inconspicuous entrance. The uncluttered ceiling was designed to be viewed as a continuous plane; all lighting, fire detection and ancillary services concealed within troughs (designed by Lewis & Hickey) set at 4cm intervals so nothing suspends below ceiling level.

Lewis & Hickey worked closely with the M&E consultant to drive down costs. An air displacement system informed the design of columns whilst each housing supply duct and grille is integrated into the casing thus maximising the savings offered by good design.

The floor slab was laid in one continuous pour with an additive to give a soft ‘yellow’ finish. The focal point of the store remains the "House", situated within the central elliptical opening, around which the shopping journey is designed and above which a scrim is suspended, reflecting the continually changing theatrical lighting.

The refreshing approach to the quality of the front of house design was continued through to the back stage areas, where themes and finishes were reflected in the café and staff facilities, for a seamless transition between the two. Likewise the Warehouse has similar colours and materials throughout, and planting and external signs were developed with all the same design intent to maintain consistency through all design aspects of the Lifestore project.

The final result, highly acclaimed in the international retail press, was designed and delivered on time and within budget.

Launch Case Study for M&S Lifestore - Gateshead (PDF)