Social Status / beSocial

2025

The first Detroit location of Social Status and beSocial, a streetwear retail concept and community space created by James Whitner with locations in Charlotte, Baltimore, Atlanta, and Philadelphia. 

The design supports a range of activities brought together in one space by this mission-driven retailer. A cafe, community media board, and custom objects that double as seating and product display allow the space to switch between retail and community events. Tall display towers and a mezzanine take advantage of the interior’s ample height, creating intimate rooms underneath and leaving a large open space along the exterior wall. On this side, large windows and a second entrance connect the inside with the courtyard and basketball court outside.