Founded in 2001 by British investment banker-turned-entrepreneur Johnny Lynn, Polistas started out supplying polo gear directly to teams, clubs and events. After deciding to branch into bricks-and-mortar retail, Lynn chose a London address appropriate for a business that caters to the “sport of kings” – the 188-year-old Burlington Arcade, which is adjacent to the Royal Academy.

To reflect Polistas’ rugged-but-stylish merchandise, JHP Design (London) infused the 1500-square-foot store with solid wood flooring, leather-clad merchandise systems and stainless-steel fittings.  

Client: Polistas, Warwickshire, U.K. – Johnny Lynn, owner

Design and Architect: JHP, London – David Rook, associate director

General Contractor: Railston, Swindon, U.K.

Fixtures & Furniture: Riverside Displays, Calne, U.K.

Flooring: Heritage Woodcraft, Hinckley, U.K.

Lighting: iGuzzini, Mitchum, U.K.

Signage/Graphics: Riverside Displays, Calne, U.K.

Wallcoverings/Materials: Kvadrat, London, U.K.

Photographer: Chris Pugh, Central Advertising Photography, Nelson, U.K.