Calling all Coach fans, shopping addicts, and cafe hoppers alike – Coach Play APW is now officially open, marking Coach Play’s debut in Kuala Lumpur! Following the successful debut of the first Coach Play store in Ipoh earlier this year, Coach Play APW takes interactive shopping to a new level, merging heritage, craftsmanship, and contemporary design to create an exploratory retail experience.
The innovative concept store draws inspiration from the brand’s New York roots while embracing the dynamic culture of Kuala Lumpur. As no two Coach Play stores are the same, this address pays homage to APW Bangsar’s rich cultural history as a former printing factory before evolving into the lifestyle hub it is today.
With a space spanning 3,280 square feet, the store artfully combines Coach’s signature aesthetic with nods to APW’s heritage. The design is infused with touches that celebrate both brands, including a warm colour palette inspired by New York’s golden hour and leathercraft details that pay tribute to Coach’s craftsmanship legacy. Familiar elements like Coach’s hang tags and the beloved mascot Rexy are seamlessly integrated into the store’s playful design.
Interactive spaces for exploration
At the entrance, visitors are greeted by the Coach Play APW logo, which merges the iconic Coach “C” with APW’s printing legacy. This area also features retro-style posters showcasing the intertwined histories of both Coach and APW, which customers can take home as collectibles.
The next section draws attention to the vibrant (read: social media friendly) Tabby Shop, showcasing Coach’s latest Tabby collections in a neon-lit space that reimagines APW’s printing past. Rexy, the beloved Coach mascot, who first appeared on the brand’s Spring Summer 2016 runway also makes an appearance in this decorative corner.
The Archive Room presents another interactive space for visitors to explore Coach’s leather craftsmanship and APW’s printing artistry. This curated corner features local stamps and graphics from The Royal Press Museum in Malacca, along with Coach codes, tools, hardware, and archival imagery alongside digital content – embodying the fusion of print and craft.
An outlet for self-expression
In line with Coach’s spirit of self-expression, Coach Play APW is home to the Creative Hub, offering the brand’s first-of-its-kind interactive screen-printing service. Here, customers can purchase T-shirts or tote bags and have them screen-printed with one of 10 different attractive designs inspired by archival Coach advertisements.
Meanwhile, the Coach Create Bar allows customers to personalise their purchases with monogram services, pins, and embellishments, making each piece uniquely theirs.
Malaysia’s introduction to Coachtopia
Another exciting highlight at Coach Play APW is the Malaysian debut of Coachtopia, Coach’s innovative platform dedicated to sustainable fashion. The Coachtopia collection comprises pieces crafted from recycled, repurposed, and renewable materials that were originally used in the creation of Coach leather bags.
Fan-favourite items include the Ergo and Wavy Dinky, each embedded with an NFC chip that allows customers to trace the bag’s origins and discover its eco-friendly story. Even the space itself reflects Coach’s commitment to sustainability, with furnishings made from materials like Innocra and leftover Coach leather.
Shop the latest fashion and footwear
In addition to its immersive experiences, Coach Play APW showcases the latest Coach ready-to-wear and footwear collections for both men and women. The store’s walls are lined with archival advertisements, paying tribute to Coach’s long-standing reputation for craftsmanship and innovation. Customers can also find Southeast-Asia exclusive items like the Charter bags in limited colourways.
A New York diner experience
Not to be missed is the largest Coach Coffee Shop in the world, comfortably accommodating up to 60 patrons. Inspired by a New York diner, the café offers an Americana-inspired menu that offers all-day breakfast and sandwiches, as well as pastries and sweet treats. Specialty coffees and crafted beverages, served with Coach’s signature “C” ice cubes, further elevate the café experience.
Try the signature soft serves if you dare, featuring seasonal flavours like Cream Cheese Bagel and Pepperoni Pizza. Other must-order items include the Pastrami Sandwich on rye bread and Ricotta Toast drizzled with honey and sea salt for fans of savoury delights; while maple glazed crullers and cinnamon rolls satisfy the sweet tooth.
The coffee shop also offers limited-edition merchandise such as tote bags, t-shirts, and caps, making it a must-visit destination for Coach fans.
Coach Play APW is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10AM to 10PM, at A Place Where (APW), Jalan Riong, Kuala Lumpur.
Images courtesy of Coach Malaysia