Ecologyst, a sustainable fashion brand based in Victoria, BC, moved its production facilities from overseas back to Canada in 2014. In 2021, the company leased a warehouse unit in a historic industrial building to combine retail, warehouse, and factory functions in a single space. Lofty ceilings, whitewashed brick, and abundant natural light created an opportunity for customers to shop while seeing firsthand where and how their clothing is made.

CHA was asked to create a flexible, gallery-like space that showcased both products and production, reflected the company’s commitment to local manufacturing and sustainability, and could be completed on a tight construction budget.

The design builds on the inherent character of the existing space, using a restrained approach that allows the clothing and industrial architecture to take centre stage. Customized off-the-shelf warehouse components from E-Z-Rect Manufacturing become primary architectural features. Floor-to-ceiling shelving holds inventory along the length of the space, while customized rolling workbenches display retail products and a large rolling stair provides access to the shelving and mezzanine lounge. White powder-coated metal and white-stained Baltic birch plywood reinforce the light, minimal palette.

Customers enter through an intimate monochromatic green foyer, where the brand’s values are etched onto an opaque glass panel, before entering the open warehouse beyond. Retail, factory, and storage functions remain visually connected, allowing customers to observe cutting, sewing, and product handling while they shop. This deliberate overlap makes transparency, ethical production, and local manufacturing visible within the architecture itself.

Photography: James Jones

Interior Design: Colin Harper Architect / West Acre Interiors