The first A|X Armani Exchange flagship store in Milan, designed by Giorgio Armani and his team of architects, fits harmoniously into part of a building designed by Gio Ponti. Although minimal it delivers a high visual impact. The corner façade is immediately striking with its three large windows, complete with window displays and adorned with the illuminated letters A and X. The space extends across two floors with an overall surface area of approximately 480 square metres. Fluid and effective, the choice of colours and materials is minimal. Floor to ceiling oak slats, a distinctive element in Armani’s minimal language, define the space. They filter the light while simultaneously providing support for product shelving. A stone effect has been used on the floor while the ceiling features exposed electrical installations embracing an industrial look and the lifts and stairs that connect the two floors feature transparent glass. Finally, a black LED screen runs around the upper perimeter of the store, displaying graphic information and logos. The entire project was designed to reduce its environmental impact, from the selection of materials and finishes to the coverings and lighting. From metal to glass, the materials used are easily disassembled, reusable and recyclable. The ceramics are produced employing a percentage of recycled material ranging from 20 to 40%. The wood and the coverings come from certified FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) forests. The lighting system, designed to limit waste, features the latest LED technology. Avantgarde systems and technology make the shopping experience unique with large-scale videowalls and Smart Checkout and POS mobility for smoother payment. The brand’s connection with music is explored in the area dedicated to special projects.