Vision
The NBA Store at Mall of America set out to redefine the retail experience with a concept that would immerse visitors in the energy of the game itself. In collaboration with idX, the design vision called for an upside-down basketball court suspended across the center of the store. This dramatic ceiling feature was designed not only as a visual anchor but as a way to draw customers deeper into the space while reinforcing the brand’s connection to the sport.
For architects, designers, and contractors, this vision represented a design challenge that merged storytelling with technical execution. The ceiling needed to function as both an architectural focal point and a high-performing acoustic surface in a busy commercial environment.
NBA Store, Mall Of America | Bloomington, MN
Design Intent
To execute this bold concept, CSI Creative specified WoodLite™ Planks—a lightweight acoustic ceiling solution that replicates the look of real wood without the weight or budget strain. Two profiles were used: Plank 001 and Plank 002. Together, these planks created rhythm and movement across the ceiling, echoing the dynamic energy of the court while integrating lighting to highlight merchandise below.
Beyond form and function, the ceiling also supported brand storytelling. The installation featuring mannequins in motion wearing Kevin Garnett’s iconic Timberwolves jersey ties local basketball heritage directly into the store’s architecture. This pairing of ceiling design with experiential retail moments shows how thoughtful design intent can shape user experience and connect emotionally with the end customer.
NBA Store, Mall Of America | Bloomington, MN
Challenges
From a construction standpoint, using real wood was not a feasible option. Solid wood would have been too heavy to suspend safely at this scale and would have significantly increased budget requirements for both material and installation. Contractors needed a solution that was easier to handle, more cost-efficient, and still visually convincing.
This is where WoodLite™ technology proved critical. Made from PET felt, WoodLite™ is lightweight, easy to install, and acoustically absorptive, making it ideal for high-traffic commercial spaces like retail.
NBA Store, Mall Of America | Bloomington, MN
As Alex Parks, Construction Project Manager for Lids, noted, the ceiling was a defining element of the project:
“CSI has been an awesome partner to work with in making the design of this ceiling come to life. The ceiling being an integral part of the store design to help draw people in the door was an important piece to construction and the outcome of the work hit our expectations. We wanted this to be our standard NBA store design but also wanted to add some key elements to make it stand out from the rest and CSI definitely helped us achieve that with the suspended ceiling.”
For architects, this highlights the value of specifying materials that achieve aesthetic vision while remaining practical. For contractors, it demonstrates how lightweight, modular acoustic planks reduce installation complexity. And for end users, it ensures a polished environment with enhanced comfort and sound quality.
NBA Store, Mall Of America | Bloomington, MN
Conclusion
The NBA Store at Mall of America illustrates how architectural vision, design intent, and material innovation converge to create immersive spaces. CSI Creative’s WoodLite™ Planks provided the natural warmth of wood aesthetics, critical acoustic performance, and installation efficiency, all without exceeding budget or structural limitations.
For architects and designers, this project shows how flexible acoustic materials can improve experiential retail design. For contractors, it proves the value of lightweight alternatives that simplify construction. And for end users, it delivers a memorable, comfortable environment that connects brand storytelling to the built environment.
With WoodLite™, the impossible becomes possible: ceilings that look like real wood, perform like acoustic panels, and install with ease.
➡️ See the NBA Store project and contact CSI Creative today to request WoodLite™ samples or reach a sales rep.
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