New Banana Republic Century City Store impresses with elegant design

Building on the momentum of its new store in New York City’s SoHo district, which opened this spring, Banana Republic has brought its new lifestyle concept to Westfield Century City in Los Angeles.

The 7,589 square meter space combines fashion, art and global culture with new on-site services that invite you to linger.

The store has a coastal vibe that lets the outdoors in, with multiple rooms, plenty of cushioned seating for relaxing, a bar and on-site tailoring and embroidery. It was designed with architect and interior designer Noa Santos of Nainoa, with artwork selected by creative consultant Jacqueline Schnabel.

On display is the August apparel collection for men and women, which leans toward denim and khaki and is an ode to the retailer’s safari roots. In addition to cashmere, linen and suiting fabrics from BR Classics, the space also showcases the growing lifestyle offering from the Gap Inc. brand’s home décor collection.

Shoppers can snag Banana Republic’s Cote Bougie scented candles from Morocco, Turkish towels, cashmere pillows and other decorative items, including cowbells for $50.

Like the SoHo store that opened in May, the LA location sets a different tone for the retailer as it attempts a comeback under new Gap Inc. CEO Richard Dickson. He said the store renovations bring an “elevated aesthetic rooted in rich storytelling and exploration.”

Banana Republic has been in a slump for several years, trying to regain the status and popularity it enjoyed decades ago. But Dickson said the brand is improving by “empowering” classic styles and emphasizing the “finest fabrics,” particularly leather and suede. Banana Republic’s first-quarter net sales of $440 million were up 2 percent year over year. Comparable sales increased 1 percent. The brand is still looking for a new CEO.