SKIMS has expanded its brick-and-mortar footprint with the opening of its first standalone store in California. Located on the Sunset Strip of West Hollywood, the 4,546-square-foot space marks the brand’s second flagship and builds on the success of the Schimenti-built New York City debut on Fifth Avenue. The new location brings the brand’s signature aesthetic home to co-founder Kim Kardashian’s native city. It continues SKIMS’ strategy of pairing immersive retail with its powerhouse e-commerce presence.
Designed by Rafael de Cárdenas, the store reflects SKIMS’ signature aesthetic, combining minimalism with a monochromatic palette. Glass fiber reinforced gypsum (GFRG) was used extensively across the walls, ceilings, hallways, and fitting rooms to emphasize continuous curvature throughout the space. The material’s flexibility allowed for exacting curvature throughout, resulting in an environment so thoroughly sculpted that 90-degree angles are nearly nonexistent within the shop.
Schimenti delivered the project within the 30-week schedule, which required extensive structural work. Schimenti removed and rebuilt nearly the entire structural core, raised the interior ceiling, and extended the northeast corner to align the footprint. The team installed 27 strongbacks (vertical supports used for temporary structural reinforcement) to stabilize the existing north wall. Nearly 40 cubic yards of concrete were poured for new footings and curbs, and the sidewalk from storefront to street was removed entirely and repoured.
Bringing the design to life required tight tolerances and detailed coordination. Schimenti led a design-assist process with the engineer and subcontractors, produced field mockups, and carefully sequenced the GFRG installation to preserve the integrity of every curved surface.
While client communication varied, the team remained flexible and solution-focused. Strong site leadership and close trade coordination ensured steady progress and alignment with evolving priorities.
Through close coordination and a design-driven approach, Schimenti delivered the project on time while navigating the complexities of a highly customized build. The result is a space that brings SKIMS’ visual language to life, seamlessly aligning brand, architecture, and craftsmanship in the heart of Los Angeles.
