The AETHER LA 2.0 project came together on an accelerated timeline, with less than six weeks to design, relocate, and oversee the build. The move required rethinking the original space entirely, reducing the footprint from roughly 4,000 square feet to less than half while maintaining the character and functionality the location was known for.

With larger elements like vehicles and the cabin no longer feasible, the focus shifted to refining the retail environment and leaning into design motifs established across other AETHER locations. An aluminum panel wall was introduced, referencing both the original AETHERstream and the New York store, helping carry a sense of continuity into a smaller space.

Material reuse played an important role. Oak boards from the original cabin were repurposed to line the fitting rooms, bringing warmth and a more intimate, cabin-like feel when trying on product.

The cash wrap became a key feature, reinterpreting the partial shipping container used in earlier stores. Using extruded aluminum and oak panels, it takes on a more open, crate-like form that feels familiar but adapted to the scale of the space.

With the reduced footprint, the layout focuses on the current collection, allowing the store to evolve more frequently and reflect seasonal changes. The result is a more flexible, functional space that stays true to the material and design language AETHER is known for.