lukstudio translates unwrapping aimé gift box experience into physical store

lukstudio translates unwrapping aimé gift box experience into physical store
all images © peter dixie for LOTAN architectural photography

shanghai-based lukstudio has designed the store of a new brand entering the market, located on an elevated strip on huai hai road. the chosen site is surrounded of well-known coffee shops and donut franchises, as well as a shopping mall across the street that opened recently, housing an array of luxury brands. this generated a challenge for the design, daring it to create a shop that stands out and appeals to the clientele of the gentrified neighborhood.

the concept was based on the experience of unwrapping an aimé gift box

the concept was based on the experience of unwrapping an aimé gift box by first tearing its layers, followed by the movement of lifting one semicircular translucent paper after another to discover the macarons within. this opening sequence gives form to the storefront design while the window display is made of four translucent layers. inside, the L-shaped layout is divided into two zones: the entrance hall with a bar, and the nine-meter long display counter in the back that showcases the macarons.

the façade references lifting one semicircular translucent paper after another to discover the macarons 

an illuminated wall was placed behind the bar and is composed of steel gift boxes at different opening states that continue into the ceiling. this creates a modular system that allows for necessary display shelves, and ceiling openings for spotlights, speakers, and security devices while being the central point of the design. 

the back wall embellished with the same pattern ends up having shelves

the gift box pattern continues from the wall into the ceiling

the lower ceiling in the entrance opens up to the bar at the back

the translucent pattern captures the attention of the people who pass by

sketches of the modular design

the original gift box that motivated the physical interior design of the store 

the store is located in a recently gentrified part of shanghai

floorplans

project info:

architects: lukstudio
location: huaihai middle road 697 long unit (north gate), 697弄 huaihai middle road, huaihai road middle section, huangpu, china, 200000
design team: christina luk, mavis li, wesley shu, scott baker (special thanks to jaycee chui of more design office)

area: 63.0 sqm
project year: 2014
lighting consultant: german to for lucent lit co. ltd
general contractor: dongde decor
photographs: peter dixie

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edited by: juliana neira | designboom