Kidrobot, Boulder, Col.
Toy collecting is definitely not just for the small fry at Kidrobot, which has evolved from a cool toy store for kids and adults alike in New York City’s hip SoHo into a multimillion dollar retail and wholesale company.
With much of the merchandise inspired by pop art from Hong Kong and Japan and designed by urban, edgy artists, the store offers an eclectic mix of limited edition toys, plush, apparel and accessories. But it is best known for its small, artfully crafted branded vinyl figures, which draw hard-core collectors of all ages. Among its most popular creations are its Dunny and MUNNY characters.
In addition to its own stores, Kidrobot products are sold in stores around the globe. Some of its most famous creations are in the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.
The brand’s latest store, in Boulder, Col., is its seventh to date, and was designed by JGA, Southfield, Mich. At 632 sq. ft., it is fun and inviting, fashioned to highlight the product and create a space where art, design and surprise all meet.
The exterior features a signature Kidrobot-blue band with two oversized “Dunny” characters (one of Kidrobot’s iconic characters) displayed above the entry level. The characters can be switched out to accommodate other Kidrobot folk.
On the interior, a white palette allows the colorful merchandise to pop within its environment. Four large video monitors along the perimeter present art of promotional content that help bring the Kidrobot lineup of characters to life. In other highlights, there is an interactive installation featuring the brand’s other signature character, Munny, which includes a five-ft. tall chalkboard with finished cutout of the figure.
The store’s plush items and other juvenile products are displayed near the storefront, with items of interest to older shoppers are located mid-store and in rear displays. Owing to their limited edition and archival nature, some products are showcased in secure cases and displays in a gallery-styled space in the rear of the store.