Check out some of India’s best concept stores that offer more than just retail therapy

Step into a world where shopping is more than just buying—it's an experience. Concept stores are taking over the industry and are transforming heritage spaces into modern lifestyle hubs. These spaces invite you to explore, indulge, and be inspired, offering much more than just products. We've rounded up some of the best concept stores across India. Whether you're into fashion, food, or culture, these stores promise an unforgettable retail journey.

Cinnamon, Bengaluru 

The experience here goes beyond just dining—it is a delightful blend of culinary delights and shopping. With a curated selection of gourmet foods, chic home goods, and trendy lifestyle items, you can indulge in a delicious meal while discovering unique treasures. We’d like to call this one a charming escape that makes every visit feel special.

Amethyst, Chennai 

This experiential gem urges visitors to explore its vibrant offerings. With the charming Wild Garden café and Bloom the Flower Shop, the space also features a chic fashion and lifestyle concept store. Frequent events enhance the atmosphere, inviting guests to wander through the captivating space.

32nd Avenue, Gurugram

This lively community space offers dining, entertainment, and retail experiences. There’s also a venue for live jazz music and the Greenr Café, which focuses on vegetarian and vegan options. The space hosts art installations, cultural events, and community gatherings— 32nd Galleries is dedicated to becoming a dynamic hub for fashion, food, and creativity in Delhi-NCR.

Crepdog Crew, Mumbai (Also In Delhi)

Besides a unique sneaker collection, the Crepdog Crew store offers a ‘Coffee & Kicks’ experience at their coffee bar by Dope Coffee Roasters. Craving more? How about an add-on of half-court outdoor basketball experience—yes, this is the ultimate hangout spot for sneakerheads and streetwear lovers alike.

The Palace Atelier, Jaipur 

This concept store by Princess Gauravi Kumari and French designer Claire Deroo is located within the City Palace and blends traditional and modern designs. The store showcases themed galleries brimming with clothing, jewellery, and accessories, all set against a vintage decor and restored royal heirlooms. This space beautifully captures the essence of Jaipur’s rich culture and artistic heritage.

Nappa Dori, Delhi 

Nappa Dori’s store experience is thoughtfully designed—it features a library, an event area, and Café Dori. The open concept enhances the immersive and aesthetically pleasing atmosphere, allowing customers to appreciate the quality of materials and craftsmanship up close. The cosy library provides a relaxing nook for visitors to explore curated reading materials, making the overall experience not just about shopping, but a holistic experience that goes beyond traditional retail.

Serendipity, Delhi 

Seamlessly blending Indian craftsmanship with contemporary design, Serendipity is a travel-inspired concept store that features textiles, vintage curios, and exquisite furniture from around the globe. The charming rooftop café helps transcend the ordinary retail experience, inviting visitors to indulge in a sensory escape. It’s that perfect spot for leisurely afternoons and inspiring finds!

One Zero Eight, Kochi 

A space that celebrates the heritage of handmade crafts in India, One Zero Eight also hosts pop-ups and exhibitions to foster discussions around art, craft, design, and fashion. The villa’s courtyard has been transformed into a garden restaurant, offering visitors a zone to relax and enjoy a meal amid their shopping experience. We love the blend of vintage decor and contemporary design.

Doki Doki, Mumbai 

Formerly an ice factory, this vibrant retail space has a bold striped mural facade and flexible, modular interiors as well as striking metal arches that double as displays and pathways to enhance spatial flow and interaction. Custom furniture inspired by geometric forms complements the artistic murals, creating a unique fusion of architectural design and cultural expression, making for an engaging shopping experience.

All images credited to the brands. 

This article originally appeared in the Cosmopolitan July-August 2024 issue.

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