Schimenti Construction partnered with A BATHING APE® (BAPE), the renowned Japanese streetwear brand, to bring their latest global retail concept to life at the American Dream Mall in East Rutherford, NJ. Designed by Studio Lourdes with coordination led by Pirie Group, the 3,994 SF store resides in the mall’s luxury wing and represents a new prototype for future BAPE locations.
The flagship showcases BAPE’s signature blend of bold design and cutting-edge retail experiences. The store delivers an elevated shopping environment with a prefabricated millwork storefront, LED-integrated glass display cases, and glass sneaker walls with floating shelves. A standout element is the Cooledge lightbox ceiling, which spans the center and rear of the sales areas, creating a sleek, illuminated aesthetic.
Despite a three-week permitting delay and a complex construction process, Schimenti navigated these challenges to complete the project within schedule, meeting the client’s expectations for an on-time opening. The build required exceptional attention to detail, particularly with the prefabricated millwork imported from Hong Kong. Field modifications were needed to align the millwork with architectural plans and shop drawings to achieve the intended design. Additional coordination was required to resolve discrepancies in the millwork’s electrical wiring, with subcontractors dedicating extra hours to accomplish the lighting design.
The project also involved navigating the intricate permitting and inspection processes of the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), including approximately 15 permits and 20 inspections. Schimenti’s proactive communication and coordination with all stakeholders ensured a seamless process from permitting to final turnover, achieving a Certificate of Occupancy in time for the intended opening date.
This flagship store sets a new standard for BAPE, with the client praising it as their best build experience to date. Schimenti’s dedication to precision and collaboration has delivered a cutting-edge retail space that embodies BAPE’s global brand identity while providing a model for future flagship locations.
