curiosity sculpts a blue labyrinth of onyx slabs inside m-i-d's concept store in kobe

step inside the m-i-d store by curiosity at Daimaru Kobe

Multidisciplinary studio Curiosity recently completed a new vibrant concept space for the Japanese fashion brand m-i-d. Situated on the third floor of Japan’s popular Daimaru Kobe department store, the retail interior unfolds as a blue onyx labyrinth inviting shoppers to explore different ‘dimensions’ and perspectives while browsing for clothes. The store showcases the selected collections of m-i-d’s five segmented brands, with the individual characters of each brand highlighted. Accompanying this variety are vertical slab walls of different heights spread throughout the concept store, creating a playfully arbitrary layout. 

m-i-d store | all images © Satoshi Shigeta

a mesmerizing blue labyrinth of onyx slab walls & tables

Curiosity (see more here) deconstructed the blue labyrinth inside the m-i-d concept store to create new perspectives and unexpected configurations. The vertical walls, reflected by mirrors, immerse the customer in an installation-like retail environment. Composing the walls and floors is a dynamic onyx pattern coated with a soft blue tone, almost evoking the color of Kobe’s urban sky. Splashes of rusty-gold onyx elegantly complement the overall blue surfaces, while a greyish carpet, designed in the same motif as the stone, unifies the different slabs.

In keeping with the sophisticated atmosphere, the furnishings include large stone tables in the same pattern as the tiled walls and a sofa in the same shade of blue. The neon-lit, rust-bronze metal stages provide an effective accent, creating balanced sequences with the walls’ texture and the ceiling’s line. Completing Curiosity’s design at the Daimaru Kobe department store are several m-i-d logo signs equally illuminated in neon lighting. 

blue tables and slab walls of different height spread throughout the store

the m-i-d store is clad in onyx patterns

enlivening the retail space with neon lighting

pairing soft blue and light gray shades

splashes of rust-gold elevate the blue backdrop

project info:

name: m-i-d | @mid_e_shopping store

location: Daimaru Kobe, Japan 

designer: Curiosity | @curiositytokyo

photography: Satoshi Shigeta

opening date: March 17,2023