What does Houston have in common with London? Would you believe…fashion?

London-based fast fashion retailer Topshop wanted its first Houston location to be a bold statement. They also wanted it to be built quickly. Enter Shawmut Design and Construction.

Partnering with Topshop’s parent company, the Arcadia Group, as well as Gardiner & Theobald and Gensler, Shawmut was first awarded the retail fit-out job. But because of Shawmut’s long-standing relationship with Simon Property Group, when the landlord’s structural work, which required preparing the space for new elevators and escalators, suddenly became available, Shawmut was awarded that, too. There was a catch, though. The extra work didn’t mean extra time. No problem. With only the slightest schedule modification, Shawmut delivered the 22,000 square feet of space on time by working nights and weekends and “over” communicating with all involved parties to make sure everyone was always up to speed.

The result is spectacular.

The Shawmut team constructed all new front- and back-of-house areas, which included two bold storefronts, complete with new 14-foot high aluminum and glass panel façade installments, two new escalators, and a new elevator.

As customers enter the space, they are greeted by LED-lit Topshop and Topman signage spanning both levels. The mix of open ceilings and architectural floating fixtures enhances the customer experience while other finishes, including decorative mirrors, stone work, and brick and wood flooring, add warmth and depth to the store.

Just as every customer expects fast fashion and high quality from Topshop, Topshop expected a fast turnaround and high quality from Shawmut. Safe to say, both Topshop and their customers are very happy.