Nestled along the historic Silk Road, Almaty has long been a crossroads of culture, commerce, and creativity. Once a vital link between Asia and Europe, the city continues to carry that legacy into the present day, evolving into one of Central Asia’s most exciting design destinations. As Kazakhstan’s largest city, with a population of around two million, Almaty thrives at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, offering a dynamic blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. What makes Almaty particularly compelling is its seamless fusion of old and new. Soviet-era architecture stands alongside sleek modern developments, while bustling street corners showcase traditional crafts next to stylish cafés and upscale boutiques. This contrast gives the city a unique character, where heritage and innovation coexist effortlessly.

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The recent opening of the Almaty Museum of Arts has further elevated the city’s cultural profile. Featuring works by prominent Kazakh artists such as Almagul Menlibayeva alongside internationally acclaimed figures like Richard Serra and Yayoi Kusama, the museum highlights Almaty’s growing influence in the global art and design scene. It also signals a broader creative awakening that is shaping the city into a hub for contemporary expression. Shopping in Almaty reflects this rich cultural tapestry. Visitors can discover everything from garments inspired by traditional Kazakh attire to handcrafted ceramics and kitchenware made from locally sourced materials like karagach elm. Each item tells a story of craftsmanship rooted in tradition yet reimagined for modern tastes. With its vibrant mix of history, artistry, and forward-thinking design, Almaty offers more than just a shopping experience—it presents a journey through culture and creativity. Whether exploring boutiques or artisan markets, the city invites travelers to engage with its evolving identity before venturing into Kazakhstan’s breathtaking landscapes.

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Korkem Experience Tucked בתוך a charming powder-yellow building in Almaty’s historic Golden Quarter, Korkem Experience is far more than a boutique—it is an ever-evolving creative universe. Designed as a “perpetual work in progress,” the store reinvents itself with each passing season, transforming both its interiors and its curated collections into immersive thematic experiences. Every visit offers something entirely new. One season may draw inspiration from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, filling the space with glittering chandeliers, antique cabinets, and vintage silverware, while racks display luminous chapans crafted with ikat-printed silk sourced from Uzbekistan. Another transformation might evoke a coastal fantasy, complete with artificial sandy settings, sailor-inspired tunics, and delicate fishing nets cascading from the ceiling. These theatrical installations blur the line between retail and art, inviting visitors to step into a living story.

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Beyond its ever-changing displays, Korkem Experience maintains a strong identity through its permanent offerings. At the heart of the store is the in-house label Steppe Roses, known for its romantic, flouncy dresses that reinterpret traditional Central Asian silhouettes for a modern audience. Complementing these are carefully selected global pieces—from elegant linen placemats by Latvian brand Truffle Bee to handwoven reed bags sourced from Madagascar. Founder Assel Tatisheva brings a distinctly personal touch to the boutique. Her travels around the world inform the store’s eclectic mix, blending international craftsmanship with regional heritage. Korkem Experience is not simply a place to shop—it is a destination where fashion, storytelling, and design converge, offering a uniquely immersive glimpse into Almaty’s flourishing creative scene.

Synesthesia Concept Store

Located just a few doors away from Korkem Experience, Synesthesia Concept Store offers a refreshing and imaginative retail experience that engages all the senses. True to its name, the store is designed as a space where sight, smell, taste, and touch merge seamlessly, creating a unique atmosphere that feels both playful and refined. At first glance, Synesthesia appears to be a stylish boutique, but it quickly reveals itself as a multi-functional concept space. One corner blooms with a delicate flower shop, showcasing seasonal arrangements that fill the air with natural fragrance. Another section is dedicated to cosmetics, where carefully curated beauty products emphasize quality, design, and sensory appeal. Each item is thoughtfully displayed, inviting visitors to explore textures, colors, and scents in a calm, aesthetically pleasing setting.

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Perhaps the most unexpected feature is the in-house ice cream parlour, which adds a delightful culinary twist to the experience. Here, guests can indulge in artisanal scoops featuring unconventional flavors such as sea buckthorn, lavender, and rich Uzbek pistachio. These distinctive combinations reflect the store’s commitment to creativity and regional inspiration, transforming a simple treat into something memorable. The charm of Synesthesia lies in its ability to blend different elements into a cohesive concept. It is not just a place to shop, but a destination to unwind, discover, and engage with design in a more immersive way. Whether browsing for beauty products, picking up fresh flowers, or enjoying a unique dessert, visitors are drawn into a thoughtfully curated world that reflects the evolving creative spirit of Almaty.

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Moonshuaq

Hidden in the basement of a residential block in Almaty, Moonshuaq is a bold and unconventional fashion label redefining how traditional Kazakh clothing is worn today. Founded by дизайнер duo Álisher Baqyt and Erkenaz Aqtileuova, the brand is built on a clear vision: to transform ceremonial folk attire into expressive, wearable pieces suited for everyday life. At Moonshuaq, heritage is not preserved in a static form—it is reimagined with a contemporary edge. The designers draw inspiration from the iconic Central Asian chapan, a traditional overcoat, translating its rich cultural symbolism into relaxed, slouchy jackets adorned with vibrant embroidery. Their collections also feature windbreakers printed with striking oyu-ornek motifs—intricate ornamental patterns deeply rooted in Kazakh identity—bringing a fresh, street-style energy to traditional design language.

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Accessories play an equally important role in the brand’s creative expression. The classic taqiyah, or traditional skull cap, is reinvented using plush embroidered velvet and accented with delicate silver chains, turning it into a statement piece. Meanwhile, Moonshuaq’s jewelry embraces playful experimentation: chunky bracelets and mismatched earrings combine ceramic oyu-ornek charms with pearls, jewel-toned beads, and even neon-colored climbing rope, resulting in pieces that feel both artisanal and avant-garde. The store’s tucked-away, subterranean location only adds to its allure, making it a hidden gem for those seeking something truly distinctive. Moonshuaq is not just a fashion brand—it is a cultural dialogue between past and present, where tradition is reshaped into bold, contemporary style for a new generation.

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Beepl Space

At first glance, Beepl Space feels like a step back in time. With its rustic straw ceiling, aged wooden textures, and understated interiors, the shop evokes the charm of a traditional countryside dwelling. Yet beneath this nostalgic aesthetic lies a distinctly forward-thinking concept—one that positions the store at the forefront of Almaty’s evolving design scene. Beepl Space serves as a creative platform for local designers, bringing together an eclectic mix of fashion, homeware, and accessories under the banner of what it calls “neo-Kazakh” design. This concept blends cultural heritage with contemporary aesthetics, resulting in pieces that feel both rooted and refreshingly modern.

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The store’s curated selection highlights the diversity of Kazakhstan’s emerging creative voices. Visitors can find textured knitwear by Metaironia, alongside structured, boxy reinterpretations of traditional Kazakh garments that emphasize clean lines and modern silhouettes. Accessories also play a key role in the store’s identity—Tamyr’s playful bag charms add a touch of personality, while jewelry from Almaty-based Ozin merges folk-inspired silverwork with bold, Y2K-style beadwork for a striking visual contrast. What makes Beepl Space particularly compelling is its ability to bridge eras and styles. The setting may recall the past, but the products speak to the future, showcasing how traditional motifs can evolve into contemporary design statements. It is a place where craftsmanship meets experimentation, and where local creatives are given a stage to redefine cultural expression. For visitors seeking something authentic yet innovative, Beepl Space offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into the new wave of Kazakh design—one that honors its heritage while confidently moving forward.

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Forma

Hidden within the industrial depths of a former Soviet-era printworks on leafy Gagarina Street, Forma feels like a discovery waiting at the end of a tunnel. Part of a growing wave of creative studios reclaiming old industrial spaces in Almaty, this ceramics atelier stands as a testament to the city’s evolving design identity. Forma specializes in handcrafted tableware that has found its way into some of Almaty’s most notable dining destinations, including the contemporary Kazakh restaurant Auyl. The studio’s pieces are not just functional objects but artistic expressions, reflecting a balance between raw craftsmanship and modern aesthetics. Step into the light-filled showroom, and you’ll find an array of striking ceramics displayed on open shelves. Among them are duotone teapots, rugged, rough-edged plates, and mugs finished with glazes that resemble swirling marble patterns.

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These pieces often originate as surplus from restaurant commissions, giving visitors a rare opportunity to purchase items created for high-end culinary spaces. Alongside these are small-batch collections that showcase the studio’s more experimental and playful side. Each piece is shaped, fired, and glazed in the workshop located just across the hall, ensuring that every item carries the mark of authentic, hands-on craftsmanship. What makes Forma particularly compelling is its setting. The contrast between the building’s industrial past and the refined beauty of the ceramics creates a unique atmosphere—one that mirrors Almaty’s broader transformation into a hub of contemporary creativity. For those drawn to design with character and authenticity, Forma offers more than ceramics—it provides a tangible connection to the artistry shaping modern Kazakhstan.

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Dunie Studio

Set inside a stately Soviet-era mansion on Tchaikovsky Street, Dunie Studio represents one of the most dynamic forces in Almaty’s contemporary design scene. As an all-women multidisciplinary collective, the studio has quietly shaped some of the city’s most creative projects, blending thoughtful design with deep cultural awareness. Dunie Studio’s influence extends across multiple fields. The team has crafted the creative direction for the clothing line Erke Moms, developed products for the yurt-inspired homeware brand Yourta, and designed packaging for TruNomad, a Kazakh natural skincare label. Each collaboration reflects the studio’s ability to merge modern aesthetics with traditional Central Asian identity. With the opening of Spazio Dunie, located adjacent to their office, the collective now has a dedicated space to showcase its own vision.

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This creative hub functions as both a studio and a gallery, offering visitors a closer look at their limited-edition collections. The pieces on display—ranging from ceramics and textiles to clothing—are deeply rooted in regional craftsmanship while embracing contemporary design language. Among the highlights are textured tekemet rugs made from soaped wool, adorned with expressive, almost abstract figures that reinterpret a traditional craft. Hand-painted kese teacups celebrate everyday rituals with artistic flair, while relaxed, oversized overshirts feature bold color-blocking inspired by quraq körpe patchwork quilts. These designs feel both nostalgic and fresh, bridging generations through material and form. Dunie Studio stands as a powerful example of how heritage can be reimagined through a modern lens. By combining research, craftsmanship, and creativity, the collective not only preserves Central Asian traditions but also propels them into the global design conversation.

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VW Home

Warm, inviting, and deeply rooted in craftsmanship, VW Home is a celebration of everyday living elevated through thoughtful design. Founded in 2021 by the creative duo Alyona Lezhanina and Alexey Lezhanina, this уютный studio in Almaty offers a calm retreat from the city’s fast-paced energy. From the moment you step inside, VW Home feels like a lived-in space rather than a traditional store. Sunlight filters through the windows, illuminating shelves of carefully arranged objects that blur the line between function and art. At the heart of the space is Alexey’s woodworking practice. A skilled carpenter, he crafts wooden cutting boards, bowls, and kitchenware from locally sourced karagach elm, giving each piece a distinct grain pattern and organic character. His work emphasizes sustainability and respect for natural materials, transforming simple objects into lasting essentials.

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Complementing this is Alyona’s contribution as a textile designer. Her creations—waffle-textured towels, soft dishcloths, and naturally made candles—bring warmth and tactile comfort into the home. Each item is designed with a focus on simplicity, quality, and everyday usability, making them as practical as they are beautiful. The store also features a curated selection of pieces from other local makers, including woven baskets by the homeware brand Uige. This thoughtful mix of in-house and sourced products creates a cohesive aesthetic rooted in natural textures and understated elegance. VW Home is more than a showroom—it is an intimate reflection of its founders’ philosophy: that well-crafted, honest objects can transform daily rituals into meaningful experiences.

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BBSR

Just a short drive from VW Home, the atelier of BBSR offers a vibrant exploration of storytelling through textiles. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Altynay Murzabekov and Dias Murzabekov, the brand is named after their daughter, Bibisarra—adding a personal and heartfelt dimension to their creative work. BBSR specializes in silk scarves and twillies that function as both fashion accessories and wearable art. Each piece is the result of close collaboration with Kazakh illustrators, bringing together diverse artistic voices to create collections that are constantly evolving. This collaborative spirit ensures that no two designs feel the same, making every item a unique expression of creativity. What truly sets BBSR apart is its distinctive visual language. The scarves are adorned with kaleidoscopic patterns, bursting with color and playful energy. These designs often draw inspiration from Central Asian folklore, reinterpreting traditional stories, symbols, and motifs in a contemporary, imaginative style. The result is a collection that feels deeply rooted in cultural heritage while remaining fresh and modern.

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The use of silk further enhances the experience, giving each scarf a luxurious texture and fluidity that complements the vivid prints. Whether worn as a statement accessory or collected as a piece of art, BBSR’s creations capture attention effortlessly. In a city where tradition and innovation intersect, BBSR stands out as a brand that transforms cultural narratives into bold, expressive design. It is not just about accessorizing—it is about wearing a story, rich with history, color, and meaning.

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Tartpa

Named after the Kazakh word for “drawer,” Tartpa is a charming, living room-style space in Almaty that opens up a world of local creativity. Designed to feel intimate and welcoming, the store brings together a community of artists and makers, offering a platform where their work can be discovered, appreciated, and supported. Founded by designer Aizhan Baitimbetova and children’s author Symbat Omarkulova, Tartpa was created with a clear purpose: to connect Almaty’s creative talents with a wider audience. The result is a thoughtfully curated collection of everyday items—postcards, notebooks, shirts, and art prints—that transform ordinary objects into meaningful pieces of design. The store’s shelves are filled with playful and distinctive works by local artists, including illustrator Aziza Kireyeva and collage artist Perizat Suleiman.

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Their creations range from witty, tongue-in-cheek Kazakh wordplay to vibrant visual interpretations of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, such as the Green Bazaar and the Almaty Television Tower. Each piece captures a slice of local culture, often infused with humor, nostalgia, or a contemporary twist. What truly sets Tartpa apart is its collaborative ethos. The store operates as a supportive creative network, ensuring that contributing artists receive royalties from every sale. This model not only sustains local talent but also fosters a sense of shared ownership and community. More than just a shop, Tartpa is a cultural hub—an inviting space where art, storytelling, and everyday life come together in the heart of Almaty.

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