London, UK - September 1, 2010
The AppLounge [www.theapplounge.com] is a hybrid space that has been curated by Alexander Grünsteidl and features a selection of well-crafted mobile applications and services. It opens from 15 September at 100 Wardour Street for coffee during the day and cocktails at night, encouraging people to discover and sample exciting new mobile and tablet applications, digital content, including eBooks, eMags, and useful online services. During the London Design Festival, the AppLounge will also conduct inspiring apptasting events and apphealth workshops.
This first-of-its-kind 'pop-up' space was has been designed to facilitate discovery, education, and engagement. The AppLounge is an innovative alternative to the traditional retail environment, converging the best of in-store and online retail experiences. This unique collaboration between Digital Wellbeing Labs, Method, App.itize.us, Spotspot, and D&D London, celebrates the best in contemporary design languages from around the world and aims to answer the challenges that retailers face as e-commerce reshapes the retail process and consumer behavior. Says Grünsteidl: "The value of the storefront is changing from one of transaction to experience. We are witnessing a transformation in business models for retailers which is opening up possibilities for convergent retail experiences. The AppLounge is a pilot store that aims to bridge the gap between the in-store and online retail experience. The space is designed to encourage customers to slow down, have a drink, and sample a variety of applications and accessories on display."
Conceived by Grünsteidl, together with a collective of design agencies and a hospitality group, the AppLounge proudly presents a new retail concept, bringing together hospitality and the latest in physical and digital products under the umbrella of Mobile Lifestyle. Mobile Apps, accessories and content, such as music and iBooks, are presented in collections that will enrich daily life and resonate with consumer lifestyles. The first Digital Lifestyle Showroom made its debut during the 2006 London Design Festival to critical acclaim. Grünsteidl is also publishing a thought piece on the topic of retail convergence, titled "Changing Retail Currency" for the 10×10 thoughts on design series published by Method on the week of 6 September. Grünsteidl is the Senior Director of User Experiences at Method [www.method.com], an award-winning, international product, service, and experience innovation firm. Method helped develop the overall concept and sponsored the installation by designing the visual identity, iPhone web brochure, website, in-store displays, posters, and promotional materials.
The AppLounge is open from 15 September through to 2 October.
Hours of Operation
Monday to Saturday
12 -- Late
Location
The AppLounge at Meza
100 Wardour St
London, W1F 0TN UK
www.danddlondon.com/restaurants/meza
For more information please visit www.theapplounge.com.
