VMSD - May 2013 - (Page 68)

CO CHECKING OUT Interview by Steve Kaufman Karen Oleson Working around the world, this designer finds new doors are opening as old ones close. A lot of people probably think Kazakhstan is a Borat joke. Why Kazakhstan for Saks Fifth Avenue? Kazakhstan’s citizens have experienced significant personal income growth, but luxury retail was limited to small brand shops in pockets of Almaty and Astana, the two largest cities. Affluent customers travel internationally, especially to Dubai for their luxury goods, so the potential was tremendous. Did you shoot for a Kazakh version of Saks? Actually, the local licensee was bringing Saks Fifth Avenue to this country. It was critical that the store look, feel and act like Saks – the American version. } Listen, listen and then listen some more – a challenge for a very talkative, creative type, but critical to creating great solutions to our clients’ problems. } Be honest, forthcoming and transparent. } Savor and appreciate the experience – what an amazing privilege to do what we do (and get paid for it). The ups and downs of the retail market certainly affect the ups and downs of the design firms. How do you ride those ups and downs? The mix of domestic and international projects has been the key element of our success. For instance, in the fall of 2008, when many of our domestic projects were put on hold, an opportunity to plan and design a second Saks store in Mexico City suddenly surfaced. The cultural differences and variety of process methods around the world continue to challenge us, but they also build exceptional experience. How do the two partners of Hambrecht Oleson keep operating so harmoniously? Early in our careers at Hambrecht Terrel Intl., Steve Hambrecht and I had a common mentor – Steve’s father, Ed Hambrecht, who treated everyone with great integrity, interest and respect. Project management and construction were Steve’s strengths, while I developed planning, merchandising and design skills. So we have grown together as professionals. Our mutual respect and appreciation for each other enhance our firm and our friendship. What do you do when you’re not designing stores? I have the amazing privilege of raising two teenage boys, Jake and Daniel, my most challenging but rewarding “project.” A great career-mom moment was showing the boys the demoed shoe floor at the Saks New York flagship the night before opening, so they could see how much fun I have. x 68 MAY 2013 | vmsd.com JAKE OLESON, SHORT HILLS, N.J. Finding Your Happy Place Where in the world has luxury retail been strongest? The Middle East is fascinating. Although Dubai’s retail has seen its ups and downs, it is definitely booming now with over-the-top luxury. Abu Dhabi is also developing into a capital of cultural and retail venues. Brazil is growing in leaps and bounds, but the lack of large properties makes it a challenge for larger luxury retail. And, of course, the network that connects all of these global opportunities – airports – is full of luxury retail catering to the global traveler. http://www.vmsd.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of VMSD - May 2013

VMSD - May 2013
Contents
From the Editor
VMSDd Editorial Advisory Board
The Goods
California Couture
Ahead of the Curve
VMSD Designer Dozen 2013
East Meets West
Solving the World’s Problems
Retail Design Firm Resource Guide 2013
Showroom: Furniture
Showroom: Installation Services
Checking Out

VMSD - May 2013