In a city steeped in architectural heritage, Akris’s new Chicago flagship is both reverent and quietly subversive. Synonymous with its grand mansions and landmark facades, the Gold Coast neighborhood where the Swiss label has settled is one of Chicago’s most storied settings—fitting for a brand that has married legacy and innovation for more than a century. Designed in collaboration with David Chipperfield Architects, the 3,500- square-foot space reimagines a classic red-brick building by encasing it in a modern glass-and-metal skin. The result is a compelling dialogue across time—one that honors the building’s origins while embracing its future.
For Creative Director Albert Kriemler, the gesture is symbolic. “Architecture, like fashion, is not static—it evolves,” he tells CULTURED. “As a sign of respect, it was important for us to preserve the historic facade while also introducing something new.”
The conversation between old and new continues once patrons step inside. White-painted maple panels create a gallery-like envelope, while nearly invisible cables suspend delicate aluminum rails, giving garments the illusion of hovering in midair. Sunlight filters through both the updated facade and preserved openings, illuminating subtle yet luxurious textures: Pietra di Vicenza Grigia stone is underfoot, while ivory horsehair fabric and beige cashmere blanket the fitting rooms.
The boutique unfolds over two airy levels, beginning with accessories and handbags before flowing seamlessly into the ready-to-wear collections. The staircase—crafted from the same Vicenza stone as the floor—acts as a sculptural centerpiece, guiding visitors upward into a serene yet tactile atmosphere.
Founded in 1922 in St. Gallen, Switzerland, Akris began as an apron atelier and has since grown into a global fashion house celebrated for architectural silhouettes, technical mastery, and an unwavering devotion to fabric. Under the direction of Kriemler, the founder’s grandson, the brand has also become known for its collaborations with artists and architects—other creative minds who share his belief that design should be intelligent and intuitive.
Now, with a foothold in Chicago, Akris adds a bold new chapter to this legacy. The Oak Street flagship blurs the line between showroom and modernist sanctuary. In true Akris fashion, it doesn’t demand attention—it earns it, gracefully.
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