To satiate their shared entrepreneurial spirit, Upward founder Mark Ward and his wife Erin created Ward&Co Men’s Grooming in 2011 to help the proper men of Seattle find the finest in shaving, grooming and skincare products. At roughly 450 square feet, the boutique retail space, located in Rainier Square beneath Seattle’s classic Rainier Tower, takes advantage of the gracious glass storefront and visibility to 4th Avenue to create an experience that feels more spacious than its size actually affords.
The space, formerly a Northwest Airlines ticket counter, was completely renovated after sitting vacant for more than a decade. Using classic and simple materials including white oak, cork, a salvaged Victorian pedestal sink and reclaimed casework, the space was designed to be timeless, cost-effective, and inviting for the male customer.