Japanese eyewear brand Jins has opened its latest concept store in the US, located on Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Los Angeles’ trendy Venice district. 

Architects Fumiko Takahama and Tomohiko Komatsu designed the new Jins Abbot Kinney store, drawing inspiration from the intimate and cozy scale and textures of traditional Japanese tea houses. 

The store features a large tabletop made of Japanese cypress wood, crafted using the “naguri” technique, which produces wave-like patterns for displaying eyewear.

Additionally, natural wood decor pieces complement the exposed original brick of the building, reflecting a deep historical connection to Maebashi, Gunma Prefecture – the region in eastern Japan where Jins opened its first store.

“We abstracted the space by painting the walls, ceiling, and existing structural beams white to lower the spatial centre of gravity and used wood, plastering, and terrazzo to complement the existing red brick, a common element of Maebashi,” explained Takahama and Komatsu. 

“By carefully selecting the material textures and colours, we designed a harmonious, comfortable space.”

As part of the digital prescription process, customers start by scanning products equipped with RFID tags and QR codes. They then have an on-site consultation with trained staff to select their preferred lens style and receive personalised fitting and adjustment services.

Once the processing is complete, customers can pick up their custom prescription frames from an in-store locker within 30 minutes or choose to have them shipped to their homes. 

By using this technology, the company said this process streamlines operations and allows store staff to dedicate more time to serving customers.

Established in 2001, Jins is known for its inclusive frame styles and personalised fitting services. The brand has expanded to over 700 stores worldwide since its inception.