Card-O-Mat

One of this small card shop's claims to fame is its location on Broadway and 112th streets, close to Tom's Restaurant of Seinfeld fame. It's also known for its huge offering of cards, gifts and party goods in a typically small New York City space. Amie Gross Architects (AGA), New York City, maximized the space, opening the store's interior to the street with full glazing, then giving it an eclectic look using unique materials and lighting effects. Bathroom-like tiles original to the space were kept and supplemented by similar new tiles in contrasting colors. AGA designed a range of fixtures — all wheeled for maximum flexibility — for the various products, and used materials that look like the papers the store sells. The cashwrap incorporates areas for registers, gift wrapping and closed display.

Photography: Frederick Charles, New York City