When Westfield Stratford City opened in 2011, Marks and Spencer was chosen as one its anchor stores – and Pentagram was brought in to work on their four stories of retail space in a landmark project.

Alongside a large team of collaborators, Pentagram helped design the customer journey, including storefronts, display windows, lighting, macro-signage and way-finding. And the store was honoured at the 2012 Retail Week Interior Awards, picking up the prize for Best Department Store Design.

Pentagram’s work included the now-iconic external signage, with its louvred screen to the cantilevered café at the top of the building. This integral element provides shading while retaining views out across Stratford.

Rising through the naturally lit central atrium of the store, a dramatic timber and steel screen installation connects all levels, arcing up and across the skylight at the top. The screen incorporates a series of large illuminated display boxes, which showcase the retail offer on each level.