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Location: Thessaloniki
Surface: 200m2
Status: Completed
Year: 2017
Team: Louis Barault, Clelia Ntassi, Elisania Michalopoulou
Photos:
Maria Karakitsiou
Designing
the concept store of a new entrant company in energy management became an
interesting challenge. It constitutes the starting point of a new branch
network that will be launched across the country. Through design gestures and decisions,
the philosophy, the principles and the corporate identity are rendered into
space. It was a difficult and nonlinear design process, struggling to balance
between the modern and dynamic design and the sense of appropriation of space, without
creating an intimidating and alienating atmosphere to the customer.
On the
ground floor, one can find the commercial area of the unit (retail - customer
service) and the associated supporting functions, while on the upper floor, the
administrative office space.
The LED
light tube network dominating the space is mounted on the ceiling and on the
walls, following free-form paths, as an interpretation of the energy flow, which
is affecting the whole design process.
The layout
of the utilities on the ground floor was articulated as a deliberate design
gesture to create a “spatial breath” at the heart of the ground floor with all
service points placed on the perimeter and on the back. The direct supervision
of the whole space allows the easy browsing and direct access towards the
desired service or information area and contributes significantly to the
ergonomics of the retail store.
All vertical
surfaces as well as the ceiling and flooring are coated with cement on gray, smooth
finish with visible the hand-crafted process, creating a neutral and continuous
canvas, highlighting three basic elements: a) the network of light tubes b) the
items on display and c) the custom design points of service and information.
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