In a bold reimagining of retail space, designer architect Sala Hars has created a dynamic display system for the Tiempos flagship store in Mexico City.
Through a series of precise interventions, Hars has opened up the interior to unveil an enfilade that serves as the backbone of the design. This architectural feature, characterized by a suite of rooms aligned with doorways, offers a one-point perspective that manipulates perception and expands the space visually.
The use of elliptical frames as portals is a defining element of Hars’ design. These geometric shapes strategically create the illusion of depth, lending the space a sense of dynamism reminiscent of Gordon Matta-Clark’s sculptural interventions or a Renaissance reinterpretation of medieval ruins. This thoughtful manipulation of form breathes new life into the store, making it a contemporary masterpiece.
In considering the actual product display, Hars drew inspiration from the dynamic interplay of objects. The spatial overlap within the store mirrors Tiempos’ eclectic influences, from Mexican streetwear to high-fashion couture. This has resulted in a flexible display system that allows for infinite configurations, accommodating the evolving needs of the brand. The systematic pragmatism of this setup enables various display styles, from a scattered forest of individual garments to a curated geometric ensemble, or even an open space for fashion shows.
The engineered ceiling system is a testament to this flexibility, capable of adapting to a multitude of conditions. This versatility ensures that the store can transform seamlessly to suit diverse purposes, enhancing the presentation of fashion while maintaining a coherent and adaptable space. The architecture, therefore, becomes an integral part of the retail experience, intertwining with the objects on display.
The store’s aesthetic is further elevated by the use of stainless steel and grey paints, creating a cold and neutral backdrop that enhances the vibrancy of the showcased garments. Described by the architects as an “industrial bunker full of life,” the store’s design underscores the symbiotic relationship between architecture and fashion. Through this meticulous manipulation of space and form, Sala Hars has crafted a retail environment that is both a machine for fashion and a mise en scène of dynamic moments, where architecture and objects coexist in a harmonious interplay.
Images by Arturo Arrieta via Designboom
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