CHIA (Australia)

06 October 2023

An exciting store and brand committed to sustainability like no other, with a design concept inspired by nature, paving the way ahead through the use of recyclable and recycled materials.

Growing up in sumptuous Costa Rica, sisters Luchi and Andrea were imbued with passion and respect for the environment as well as a deep connection with the ocean. The sisters, a designer and a marine biologist, started by importing swimwear from abroad and opened a store in Santa Ana in 2015. But the urge to create a more sustainable option led them to launching their own swimwear label, Chia, in 2019 and opening a flagship store in Byron Bay, Australia together with business partner Amai. Sustainability and respect for the planet are not only at the core of their lives and every aspect of their business, but a true and necessary mission. Luchi and Amai designed the space themselves, assisted by their partners. The focus was to present a metaphor of the circular supply chain, with a design that replicates the flow in nature, rich in circular arches and curved rails. The feel is that of floating in a magical green sea, where countless treasures can be discovered.

For the fittings and furnishings alternative materials were sourced resulting in a captivating yet sustainable style: the rippled bench tops are made of magnesia cement which has a lower energy consumption and CO2 emission than traditional cement and can be reused. The display furniture is made of temperate which sequesters CO2, so the shop is actually absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere, just like a tree! The custom hangers are made from recycled plastic and the fitting rooms have original 3-metre-long up-cycled towel curtains from the brand Wostmanted encouraging a more sustainable lifestyle. The Pre-Owned Rack invites members of the local community to sell their clothes in-store while the Rental Rack displays a selection of occasion wear. Customers can also stock up at the sleek Bulk-Beauty station offering a selection of certified organic essential oils for hair and skin rituals, refilling their own container or using one of Chia's refillable glass containers. Luchi hopes the initiatives will be of inspiration to other businesses to take on more accessible and sustainable alternatives.

We love the elegantly hanging glass vessels on the beauty wall!

AMONG THE BRANDS OFFERED

Swimwear Hunza-G, Acacia, Seafolly, Belle, Bond-eye, Cleonie, Toast, Stone Fox Resortwear Andean Collective, Olga Joan, Flook the label, Ambition the label, Cleobella, Rupalaus, Kahlo Kahlo, Cleonie, Andean Collective, Pinky &, Kamal.

Sales surface 230 sq.ft

Number of stores 2 (Byron Bay- Australia, Santa Ana-Costa Rica)

Online store chiaswim.com.au