Originally by the SoFA Design Institute, the SoFA Retail Lab first opened its doors in its campus
in 2008. The SoFa Retail Lab was primarily a testing ground for SoFA alumni and students to
showcase and sell their merchandise. The store then popped up in 2009 in Power Plant Mall until it
found its permanent home in the Archeology annex of the mall. The Retail Lab as its more fondly called, has bee
n owned and managed by Claudine Baron-
Paulino and Rosanna Aranaz since 2010. Now one of the longest running multi-brand stores, it
has served as a venue for young designers and independent labels. Over the years it has housed
labels such as Soak Swimwear, Neon Island, Eighth Mermaid, ANMA Lifestyle, I Love Koi and
Jean & Rosz.