Best International Design Winner: ZOOM

Best International Design
Winner: ZOOM, Dubai, United Arab Emeritus
Designer: Emirates National Oil Co.

Located in the lobby of the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa ZOOM store in downtown Dubai is 1,250 square feet, with elegant wood finishing that elevates the brand aesthetics and complements the sophisticated décor of Burj Khalifa.

The objective was to cater to a diverse customer base made up of various demographics, including the residents of the building’s 900 apartments; guests of the Armani Hotel, which is within Burj Khalifa; employees who work in the commercial offices that span the 163-floor site; and the staff operating within the tower. Another catch: The tower management wanted the design to differ from the standard ZOOM store of Emirates National Oil Co.

Foodservice plays a critical role in the Burj Khalifa ZOOM store, with customers demanding fresh and quick service on the go. A partnership with Starbucks has proven to be a hit with the tenants, and it complements the store’s fresh bakery counter.

Additionally, ZOOM acquired separate storage space within the tower to carry sufficient stock to feed into the shop, as well as for direct home delivery within the tower. This helps to overcome the limitations of the smaller store footprint.