Cultural anthropology: US favourite sets up home across the pond

London – US fashion and lifestyle boutique Anthropologie opens its first store in the capital tomorrow, in a three-storey space filled with the brand’s signature touches of whimsy and wonder.

The retailer is known not only for its eclectic collection of womenswear, accessories and homewares – exclusive designer collaborations and independent commissions are popular – but also for its wonderland-inspired store interiors. The London space boasts such treasures as a family of found-object chandeliers by South African design studio Magpie, a series of reclaimed organ boards from the Royal Albert Hall, and, in the storefront, an installation of artfully stained tea bags. A living wall of green plants spans the three floors.

The store’s approach – to invite, engage, surprise and delight – is certain to attract shoppers away from e-commerce sites and in through the doorway.