Pop-up stores are nothing new, especially at Universal. From seasonal tribute stores to the Wicked Experience stores that recently opened at both Universal locations in the United States, the pop-up store – themed retail locations dedicated to celebrating certain shows, movies, or concepts – are an aspect of the Universal theme park that has become baked into the very foundation of the experience. We all expect to see pop-up stores from time to time, and we all know that the experience of those stores, as well as the merchandise sold within, are temporary pleasures at best. So, when pop-ups… well, pop up, fans are always eager to check out what these temporary experiences have to offer, before they’re gone for good!
Recently, Universal Studios Hollywood opened The House of MinaLima pop-up shop, a limited-time experience dedicated to exploring the impact that design firm MinaLima has had on Universal properties, partners, and parks over the last few decades.
As previously discussed, MinaLima is the visual design firm responsible for the unique look of the Wizarding World in the Harry Potter movie franchise. Having designed the papercraft, signage, and other decorate elements found within the Wizarding World, MinaLima’s sense of whimsical organized chaos gave the secret world of wizards a uniquely magical feel.
Now, in addition to the wide array of Wizarding World memorabilia, guests can bring home specialized merchandise curated by the House of MinaLima design firm, including specialized prints and replicas of design elements from the movies, including copies of the daily prophet front pages with lenticular inlays that appear to move, prints of the Marauder’s Map, and other products like tote bags, blankets, mugs, and more featuring MinaLima’s iconic designs. For collectors eager to get their hands on truly special pieces of Harry Potter history, each limited edition print does come numbered and with a certificate of authenticity – with some limited edition prints running as low as 1000 units.
This beautiful new pop-up shop is located within the Universal Studios Store. This shop, like all things featured at Universal, is heavily themed, and greets guests with a floor-to-ceiling reproduction of the Black Family Tree, as well as a myriad of prints, designs, and concepts drafted by the design firm, many of which are also for sale at the shop or on MinaLima’s website, which can be found [here], for anyone unable to make the pilgrimage to California to capitalize on this excellent opportunity.
However, if you do opt to purchase products from the MinaLima site instead of at Universal Hollywood, be aware that international shipping fees may apply for wizards living outside of the UK, and that their owls will be taking a well-deserved vacation until after the new year, and orders will pick back up on January 2nd.
