Million Goods Fort Greene: A Fusion of Retail and Hospitality
Architect Gjergji Shkurti has reimagined a space in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, for Million Goods' second location, crafting an environment that gracefully merges retail and hospitality. Through the thoughtful application of luxurious materials like marble, bespoke millwork, and meticulously selected furniture, Shkurti has created a setting where visitors can transition effortlessly between shopping and social interaction. This new establishment, with its vibrant red spiral staircase visible from the bustling DeKalb Street, signifies a significant expansion for Million Goods, offering a distinct ambiance compared to its earlier Greenpoint venture.
The concept store's expansion into Fort Greene was initiated after co-founder Matt Reyer discovered the two-level space, previously a design studio, in his neighborhood. Recognizing its potential, Reyer and fellow co-founder Drew Kaufmann enlisted local architect Gjergji Shkurti, the visionary behind Figure Ground, to undertake the transformation. Unlike the single-story Greenpoint store, this new location provided a more expansive canvas, boasting two levels and an extensive courtyard, allowing for a broader interpretation of the Million Goods brand.
Shkurti's design philosophy for the Fort Greene site was to strip back the interiors to their essential forms, organizing the space to facilitate both social gatherings and retail activities. He masterfully integrated these functions stylistically while maintaining a physical separation, with the ground floor dedicated to social interaction and the upper level housing the retail component. This spatial arrangement is exemplified by the grand Breccia Pernice stone countertop on the first level, which anchors the wine bar area, lending a "regal" feel that Shkurti believes sets it apart from the more "fun" Greenpoint location.
The ground-floor bar and social area embody a modern New York aesthetic, blending various design influences. Custom casework crafted from sapele wood in a rich peca tone houses metallic speaker boxes, contributing to the sophisticated atmosphere. Bridge Street Sound was responsible for the audio system, notably integrating a large speaker directly into the marble bar. Seating options include Emeco bar stools by Philippe Starck, complementing the wooden banquet seating that lines the space. The ceiling, with its Japanese-inspired fabric drapes and wooden slats, not only enhances sound dampening and light diffusion but also adds a unique visual element.
The outdoor area, designed to evoke a sense of Brazilian brutalism, features a central planter for a mature tree, which doubles as seating, and washed concrete walls. A Louis Poulsen Flindt Plaza post serves as a prominent lighting feature, part of a sponsorship that saw the lighting company's fixtures incorporated throughout the store. The building's historic facade was meticulously refinished with approval from local preservation boards, with the backyard-facing trim painted a vibrant red to echo the interior staircase, while the front facade retained its classic black finish.
The red spiral staircase, a focal point, was an original element that was enhanced with new siding and a bright red finish by local fabricator Wood Steel Stone. This firm also contributed an impressive central display table on the upper floor, an intricate piece combining aluminum and wood. Upstairs, the original wooden floors were refinished, preserving a touch of the building's heritage. Shkurti's custom millwork continues on this level, forming display cases for the contemporary and accessible clothing and goods offered by Million Goods.
A unique feature on the upper floor is a metal stand by Wood Steel Stone, accessible through a portal door, which functions as both a point-of-sale station and a DJ booth for events. Voids carved into the partition walls on either side of this portal house additional speakers, directing sound into the main retail area. Above the custom display table hangs a Louis Poulsen pendant lamp, designed to exude a vintage charm. From the upstairs vantage point, shoppers can observe children playing basketball across the street, rooting the establishment firmly within its neighborhood context.
The Million Goods Fort Greene establishment stands as a testament to thoughtful design, creating a harmonious blend of retail and social experiences. Through the innovative use of materials, strategic spatial planning, and a keen eye for aesthetic detail, Gjergji Shkurti has crafted a captivating destination that enriches Brooklyn's diverse urban landscape. The space not only serves as a commercial hub but also as a vibrant community spot where design, music, and social interaction converge.
