el departamento blends basque and japanese aesthetics for bershka’s san sebastián store

‘Uchi–Etxe’ Concept Guides El Departamento’s Design for Bershka

El Departamento collaborates with Bershka on its new concept store in San Sebastián based on the idea of ‘Uchi–Etxe,’ a meeting point between Japanese domestic aesthetics (uchi) and the traditional Basque house (etxe). The project reinterprets the brand’s identity through a domestic, contemporary spatial framework that aligns with the city’s layered and cosmopolitan character.

Located at 3 Fuenterrabia Street, the store reorganizes an existing site into a permeable retail environment defined by large windows that enhance the relationship between interior and exterior. Referencing the typology of the Basque farmhouse, circulation is structured as a sequence of interconnected rooms without corridors, creating a layout based on spatial continuity. The fitting rooms draw from the typology of the teenage bedroom, reflecting a space commonly associated with early personal expression.

all images courtesy of Bershka

Music-Infused Interiors define San Sebastián concept Retail Space

Music operates as a central theme throughout the store. Visitors move through distinct areas, including an entrance hall with ‘gold records,’ a recording studio, a hi-fi room, and a BSK zone, each incorporating visual and spatial cues related to music culture, a consistent reference in Bershka’s brand language. Materials, vinyl details, and custom lighting contribute to this thematic framework.

For the ground floor, the design team at El Departamento employs light-toned materials to establish a bright environment, while the lower level, dedicated to menswear, adopts a more immersive atmosphere. Modular and adaptable furniture supports flexible merchandising and underscores the relationship between local references and global design influences. Throughout the project, traditional motifs and contemporary elements are placed in dialogue. The new San Sebastián store presents a retail environment where design, music, and cultural context converge. The project reflects an approach to retail architecture that merges local identity with an international outlook.

the store’s design bridges Japanese ‘uchi’ and Basque ‘etxe’ domestic traditions

a contemporary spatial concept redefines Bershka’s identity in San Sebastián

circulation unfolds through interconnected rooms inspired by Basque farmhouse layouts

a corridor-free plan enhances spatial continuity throughout the store

a dedicated hi-fi room reinforces the store’s sonic identity

large windows create a permeable retail environment connected to the street

fitting rooms reinterpret the atmosphere of a teenage bedroom

custom lighting highlights textures, materials, and spatial contrasts

modular furniture allows flexible arrangements and adaptable merchandising

the project positions the store as a meeting point for design, music, and community

the new flagship reflects a retail strategy rooted in both local identity and international perspective

project info:

name: ‘Uchi-Etxe’ Bershka San Sebastián Flagship Store

architect: El Departamento | @eldepartamento.estudio

lead architects: Alberto Eltini & Marina Martín

client: Bershka | @bershka

location: 3 Fuenterrabia Street, San Sebastián, Spain