Norman Foster’s Vision Shines as Apple Opens Landmark Store in Malaysia

Apple The Exchange TRX is the first Apple Store in Malaysia, nestled within Kuala Lumpur’s new Tun Razak Exchange (TRX). This store features a unique three-dimensional layered roof that glows warmly at night, making it a standout feature of the entire development. The design beautifully bridges the mall’s central atrium with a rooftop park, which includes a vibrant tropical garden and a communal lawn that wraps around the store’s upper level. It’s a place where technology.

Stefan Behling, Head of Studio at Foster + Partners, expressed his excitement about the opening of Apple The Exchange TRX: “We are delighted to see Apple The Exchange TRX opening its doors to the public. The project captures the vitality of the city with a layered roof of stacked solar shading blades that appear to float above the landscape. Galleries and walkways provide spectacular views of the natural surroundings and offer unexpected lines of sight through the store at different levels. The store’s grand interior showcases Apple’s innovative product lineups and aims to elevate people’s spirits by celebrating light and shadow.”

Designed as a stunning glazed dome, the roof of Apple The Exchange TRX measures 87 x 87 feet (26.5 x 26.5 meters) and smoothly transitions from square to round shapes as it ascends. To address Malaysia’s tropical climate, the roof has a series of fins angled to manage solar radiation. It gives the impression of being solid at the lower levels, becoming more open and airy as visitors move through the store. The lowest fin extends outward to protect the glass façade, creating a shaded walkway around the store’s edge. At the center, a glazed oculus with 30% ceramic frit allows soft daylight to filter in and features dynamic lighting, enhancing the interior’s ambiance.

The store spans three levels, culminating in a viewing deck at the top that seamlessly connects with the park, allowing daylight and greenery to fill the soaring interior. A beautifully crafted quartz and glass staircase and a custom-glazed elevator link the various floors, with tiered landings offering multiple sightlines through the space. The Forum sits on a floating deck, while the avenue and display tables occupy the lowest level, providing direct access to the mall. The store also features a video wall, a boardroom, and a dedicated Apple Pickup station for added convenience, all while maintaining a harmonious connection with the natural surroundings.
Apple The Exchange TRX is a testament to sophisticated design, employing only the finest materials. The store boasts elegant natural stone walls, sleek polished stainless-steel columns, light Terrazzo floors, and a warm timber ceiling, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and refined. The use of these high-quality materials ensures that every visit to the store is an experience of luxury and comfort.