Since his debut in 1998, fashion designer William Reid has been garnering attention for his menswear line that mixes Southern style with a dash of urban sophistication. So it only seems fitting that the designer's first retail space carry that same personality.
To uncover Reid's roots and the source of his inspiration, designers from Droese Raney Architecture Inc. (Dallas) traveled to his hometown of Florence, Ala., where salvaged architectural materials, antiques and craftsmanship were the style du jour.
They translated that foundation into a store concept by mixing reclaimed materials and new design elements for a rustic aesthetic with a sense of modern luxury. For instance, custom metal work is mixed with recycled heart pine beams to create display tables and fixtures.
To evoke an Alabama storefront, designers used warm woods and antiqued bronze details in the signage. Just inside the store, an “ante-room” entrance space is created using antique tables and wardrobe units. The main sales floor is divided into two areas: One uses a refined plaster wall with bronze scrolling as a modern backdrop for clothing, while the other side features rugged bricks with layers of paint for an old warehouse feel.
Subtle touches, including antique mirrors, vintage furniture and photography of everyday men wearing Reid's fashions, help further define the Billy Reid lifestyle.
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Client: Billy Reid, Houston
Billy Reid, partner
Jake Szczepanski, partner
K.P. McNeill, partner
Katy McNeill, partner
Design/Architecture: Droese Raney Architecture Inc., Dallas
David Droese, president
Lance Raney, ceo
General Contractor: Welch Contractors Inc., Kenosha, Wis.
Fixtures: 3 L Designs Inc., Dallas
Flooring: Orr-Reed Wrecking Co., Dallas
Signage and Steel/Metal Fabrications: LM Fabrication, Dallas
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Photography: Jud Haggard, Jud Haggard Photography, Bellaire, Texas