The Isetan Supermarket at Suria KLCC has long been a landmark for premium retail experiences in Malaysia. Recently redesigned by Semba Malaysia, the space brings together Japanese sensibility, contemporary detailing, and an elevated retail flow. My photography assignment here was to translate not just the interiors, but also the design philosophy that makes this supermarket stand out — a place where everyday shopping feels like a refined experience.
A Welcoming Entrance
The bold entrance creates a sense of anticipation for the shopping journey ahead.
The striking entrance sets the tone — sleek metallic finishes, clean lighting, and an inviting view into the fresh produce section. Customers are immediately welcomed into a bright, well-structured layout that hints at Isetan’s balance between luxury and practicality.
Fresh Produce and Daily Essentials
Thoughtfully designed produce displays highlight freshness and abundance.
The seafood area emphasizes clarity, hygiene, and accessibility.
The Fruit & Vegetable section is vibrant yet neatly organized — wood accents and warm lighting bring a natural, market-like freshness into the space. Moving into the Seafood area, design takes on a sharper, more hygienic aesthetic with crisp lines and open layouts, ensuring both efficiency and trust.
The Delicatessen Experience
An open counter concept blends transparency with variety.
Modern display counters elevate the butchery and deli experience.
The Delicatessen and Meat counters offer more than just food — they represent a thoughtful approach to display and customer interaction. Bright glass counters, clean tiling, and strategically placed lighting create a space that feels premium yet approachable, echoing the Japanese idea of omotenashi (hospitality).
The Liquor Section — Elegance in Detail
Black framing and curved lines add sophistication to the liquor department.
The Liquor section is framed with bold black lines and soft curves, instantly differentiating it from the rest of the store. It reflects a sense of exclusivity, aligning with the premium lifestyle that Isetan has cultivated over decades.
Conclusion
Semba Malaysia’s redesign of Isetan KLCC goes beyond aesthetics. Every section — from produce to liquor — is meticulously planned to create a seamless flow, balancing functionality with refinement. For me as a photographer, the challenge was to capture not only the physical design but also the intangible atmosphere of trust, quality, and sophistication that this project embodies.
This is more than a supermarket; it’s a retail experience shaped by design.