Headlines

Renowned Store Designer Richard Altuna Dies at 70

“Generous to a fault,” his client list was chock-full of prominent retailers.

Published

4 years ago

June 28, 2021

VMSD Staff

Renowned Store Designer Richard Altuna Dies at 70 — Richard Altuna | Credit: Saddleback Chapel

Richard Altuna | Credit: Saddleback Chapel

Richard Altuna, a famed architect who left an indelible mark on the world of store design, died at the age of 70 after contracting West Nile virus, NPR reports.

Described in the article as “a tall, idiosyncratic figure whose sneakers were often left untied,” the most recognizable work of his 46-year career came for A-list retailers such as Williams Sonoma, The Gap, Starbucks, Patagonia and Restoration Hardware. His other projects included Washington D.C.’s District Wharf and the NBA Store in New York City.

Designer dignitaries who spoke with NPR credit Altuna with developing the standard for intimate retail experiences that consumers know today.

He was “generous to a fault, fun loving, food lover, avid movie goer, book, toy, and tennis shoe collector,” according to a statement from his family.

An obituary can be found on the website for Saddleback Chapel in Tustin, CA.

Read more at NPR.

VMSD Staff

Drawing on more than 125 years of history serving the retail design market, VMSD magazine provides retail professionals with the most up-to-date, innovative retail design ideas and industry news through its industry-leading magazine, website, social media channels and bulletins.

click to Comment(Comment)

Up Next

Two Women Use Walmart App to Steal $100,000 Worth of Merchandise

Don't Miss

Under Armour Ramps Up Hiring

MasterClass: ‘Re-Sparkling’ Retail: Using Store Design to Build Trust, Faith and Brand Loyalty

HOW CAN WE EMPOWER and inspire senior leaders to see design as an investment for future retail growth? This session, led by retail design expert Ian Johnston from Quinine Design, explores how physical stores remain unmatched in the ability to build trust, faith, and loyalty with your customers, ultimately driving shareholder value.

Presented by:
Ian Johnston
Founder and Creative Director, Quinine Design