Salvo's contemporary take on wabi-sabi sets it apart from typical clothing stores. Acuña aimed to create a space that would bring joy and familiarity to whoever walked in, and the result is an homage to the east with a global influence. The store's facade exudes a friendly warmth, as if it has been lived in for many years. This nostalgic look is still very much alive in the old streets of Europe, and thanks to Salvo, Hong Kong shoppers can experience a unique blend of East and West.

As soon as you step inside Salvo, you'll be enveloped by a slow and easy feeling, thanks to the store's warm timber tones, soft fabric details, vintage furniture, artwork, and fresh plants. The walls and ceiling showcase timeless imperfection, with light brush strokes retaining a gentle calmness. The concrete floor and natural fixtures perfectly complement the bamboo-slatted ceiling. "Salvo gives off a relaxed and easy vibe, as if it were situated in a small town," says Acuña. "The materials we've chosen are matte, rough around the edges, and nothing too bling or glossy. This is a project that's meant to evolve and grow over time with the needs of the business, and we're excited to see where it takes us."

Timelessness -

“Slow down you're doing fine. You can't be everything you want to be before your time.” This specific line in the song personifies the city of Vienna as a metaphor for life and taking everything just a bit slower. This translates to the concept and theme of Hamish Peddie’s Salvo Store. “It can be overwhelming for a place like Hong Kong, and we believe this song resonates with Hong Kong and Salvo,” says Alex Garcia, the project’s Design Lead.

Imperfection -

Wabi-Sabi, from a Japanese aesthetic, is centred on the acceptance of transience and imperfection. Appreciating the beauty that is "imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete”.

“The use of lime wash paint on walls, the pops of colour in certain areas, and the reuse of bamboo on the ceiling as a feature element. I believe there is beauty in simplicity and in making the most of what you have.” Says lead designer, Alexia Garcia.

It starts with the old-town facade, a nostalgic approach so  close to the heart of Salvo founder Hamish Peddie. “He gave us photos of old European towns for inspiration. He wanted the shop to evoke charm, old-world character, and joy,” says JJ Acuña.