Interval

Interval is an independent running store in Edinburgh designed to support the city's fast-growing running community.

Runnin' down a dream
Aidan, our client, came to us with his vision – an independent running store in Edinburgh. More than a retail store, it had to be rooted in and serve the local community and the city's running clubs. Working together, we transformed his ambition into a brief that shaped the design for a store that's about more than selling shoes (though that's important, too). Interval is about fostering community and creating space for good things to happen.

Start it up
A modest budget helped crystallise our approach to delivering the most value in the design and our services. We kicked off the process by putting together an initial design centred around the all-important customer experience and three key areas of investment to deliver the biggest impact – shopfront, shop floor and lighting. It proved worth its weight in gold by building momentum around the store, helping define Interval's offer and capturing the attention of running brands.

Loose fit
In just a few months, Aidan landed on the perfect site (a café in its past life) on a prominent corner of Easter Road. From here, we designed the retail concept for the store. Set over ground and basement floors, the plan is all about flow and built-in flexibility. The ground level focuses on the shop's major draw – a trainer wall. Other key elements include a console, a few clothing rails (the only fixed element), a changing room and a treadmill. There are also benches the Interval team can switch out for temporary rails and displays to support parties and events. Domestic-style lighting and furniture create a sense of comfort throughout the space. The basement is being used for storage but will accommodate future growth.

Run this town
Throughout the journey, we've collaborated with local architect and friend Studio AWA to get the design off the page and into the real world. They've handled the building warrant, lease negotiations and managing work on site. In keeping with the spirit of the building, volumes have been reinstated, additions removed, and original features exposed. A couple of highlights are the beautiful timber floor and original signage above the door. Mosaic tiles marking the threshold have also been patched up and will be refurbished later down the line. For now, the focus is getting the doors open in July and letting life in.  

“Where to start... collaborative, creative, inspiring and, most importantly, really f**king good at their jobs. It's been a pleasure working with Andy, Jordan, and the wider team. As a first-timer in bricks & mortar retail, they've held my hand when required, challenged me when they see fit, and been wholly understanding of our budget levels. It's cliche, but the minute a studio feels part of your team is the minute you know things are going well.”

Aidan Thomson, Client, Interval