VISION 36—COUNTER BALANCE
How else does the black backed glass contribute
to the in-store experience?
We used the black backed glass because it reflected quite
beautifully and it felt stylish and formal. The existing floor was
actually black and we were trying to avoid replacing it when
it was already in good condition. These black glass sculptural
elements felt so much like Issey Miyake, as landscape and
water elements and this really grew out of the black flooring.
Does the black rain pattern deliver anything else?
A material like glass really reiterates that idea that this is
a lab. The glass is a little bit technical. It has a linear pattern
through it. It does look like it's easy to clean, just like you
would have in a lab, but it's a retail store.
The main materials we used in the store were timber and
glass. The timber really gave the feeling of the hand made,
crafted, with softness and warmth while glass added that
layer of the technical, hygienic and slick. It was really
a lab feeling we tried to create for this store.
Are there design elements unique to this kind of store?
We didn't want to scare people away who might not
necessarily be looking for items made in Japan. It is really
offering a retail experience. The products are grouped
by regions and recognize certain specialized skills – paper,
metal, china etc. On one hand we wanted to create calm
and stillness, but at the same time, with a retail space
you want buzz, excitement and visual interest.
PROJECT
GLASS SUPPLIER AND SPECIALIST SUPPORT
MONOLAB, South Yarra,
Melbourne
Viridian
CLIENT
Viridian ScalaMirage™ Rain
backpainted black
Loft Alpha
INTERIOR DESIGNERS
Nexus Designs
BUILDER/SHOPFITTER
Osiris Furniture
PRINCIPAL GLAZING
SIZE
127 sqm
BUDGET
$80,000