A Bathing Ape

Studio Lourdes served as Architect of Record for A Bathing Ape’s 3,994-square-foot flagship at American Dream in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The store introduced BAPE’s new global retail concept, developed by the brand’s internal team and inspired by the architecture of Edo-period Japanese temples. Studio Lourdes translated that vision into a coordinated, permit-ready project while protecting the integrity of the design throughout construction.

A central challenge was integrating custom millwork fabricated overseas before the site conditions had been fully verified. The team conducted detailed field surveys, coordinated closely with the contractor and millworker, and resolved discrepancies before they compromised the final space.

Completed in January 2025, the flagship opened as a faithful expression of BAPE’s approved concept, with its immersive architectural language preserved across every detail.