AppleInsider reports that Apple is building a giant glass structure reminiscent of the discontinued G4 Cube as the entrance to its new store at the GM building:
Construction workers last week began to assemble a giant glass cube, which will be set like a jumbo gemstone atop Apple Computer's upcoming flagship retail store in the underground concourse of the General Motors building in Midtown Manhattan.
On Thursday workers operating a crane could be seen lowering several glass panels into place in the middle of the plaza of the GM building at 767 Fifth Avenue, between 58th and 59th Street. When complete, the 32-foot glass cube will form a stunning gateway to a circular glass staircase and cylindrical elevator leading to an underground 25,000-square-foot Apple retail store.
In a somewhat related story, Betanews has revealed that Wired is going to open up a short-lived retail location in SoHo in November (nearby the temporary Kodak store):
Wired Magazine said Tuesday that it plans to open a retail location in the Soho District of Manhattan, which would stay open from November 18 through December 24. The purpose of the store would be to give shoppers a chance to see the latest technology and gadgets up close. 65 products will be featured, including an auction for a trip into space, worth $102,000.
Customers will make purchases from kiosks around the store, and items would be shipped directly to their homes. In a further twist to the average shopping experience, those who make purchases during the weekends will also receive free shuttle service to their next destination in Wired Volkswagens. "Just as the magazine ushered in a new vision and voice for what's next, the Wired Store expands the boundaries of branded retail outlets," said Wired publisher Drew Schutte.
OMG OMG OMG: Kiosks, trips into space, Wired Volkswagens? It's like living in the future! Or at least, in the second dotcom boom! Not to be outdone in the short-lived retail category, Gothamist would like to announce that we are opening a bar tonight for four! hours! only! (8pm, Knitting Factory, $3 Buds, some freebies until our tickets run out). Aw3s0me!
