Warehouse No.129, the design store by Sixth Sense in Penang, Malaysia, has undergone a thoughtful transformation at the hands of interior architects Empt Studio. More a refinement than reinvention, the redesign builds upon the store’s artisanal essence, honouring its dedication to craftsmanship while enhancing the warmth and tactility of the space.
Inspired by the owner’s deep appreciation for handmade goods, Empt Studio leaned into material honesty, selecting bamboo and timber as the core elements of the refresh. Custom bamboo display systems frame the space, their interlocking joints — designed with aeronautical engineering principles — ensuring both structural integrity and a seamless, sculptural aesthetic. The natural knots, grains, and tonal shifts of the bamboo serve as an understated nod to its organic origins, reinforcing a connection between material and maker.
Aged wood, raw textures, and shifting light add to the sensory richness, creating a retail experience that extends beyond commerce into something more contemplative. Every surface speaks to the handmade, the imperfect, and the time-honoured traditions that Sixth Sense celebrates.
Much like the brand itself — known for its understated, wearable designs — the space pares back ornamentation in favour of quiet, intentional beauty. By embracing the natural irregularities of its materials, Warehouse No.129 exudes an effortless charm, proving that the most refined spaces are often the most deeply felt.
Warehouse 129 Penang Photography, Weng Jen.
