IKEA has opened its first full-sized London store for 14 years, in the shape of a new sustainable branch in Greenwich. The retailer describes the store as a ‘beacon of sustainability’ for the brand in the UK. The retailer’s in-house design team worked with SRA Architects to create a store designed to have a positive impact on the environment, and to promote healthy and sustainable living.
The store’s location at the Millennium Way Retail Park, on the Greenwich Peninsula, has been chosen to be easily accessible by public transport. The store offers a range of delivery options – including Zedify bike couriers and Hertz EV van hire – to help customers shop without using their cars. The store also offers electric car charging points and covered cycle parking.
Measuring 32,000 sq m (344,445 sq ft), the store is intended to be place where Londoners can meet, share, learn and shop, according to IKEA.
IKEA Greenwich store manager Helen Aylett says, “The unique design of our new store in Greenwich recognises and positively responds to the distinct setting of the Greenwich Peninsula. The appearance of the store has been re-invented to provide better visual and physical connections with the surrounding area, whilst remaining true to the blue and yellow identity which is synonymous with the IKEA brand.
“The use of timber is a reference to both a key material used in the design of our products and Greenwich’s maritime heritage. The enhanced use of glazing allows far more natural light into the store, providing an even better shopping experience for our customers.”
A number of new features have been introduced to the store, which is the 22nd full-sized Ikea branch in the UK. These include a Learning Lab, which is a dedicated space for customers, partners, and the local community to explore ways to prolong the life of products, upcycle items, reduce waste, and grow their own food. There is also a roof pavilion and garden.
