Retail Hub –Modern Aesthetic & Functional Finesse | AS Architects
Mumbai-based Architectural Studio AS Architects unveils their design for a 1275 Sq. Ft Luxury Décor venue that is the amalgamation of chic design sensibilities & the quintessential ambiance.
Located in the acclaimed design retail hub – Laxmi Industrial Estate of Mumbai, the Blancora store makes its presence felt in its context kudos to its stark design narrative & functionality. This G+1 structure was completed over April to July 2019 & was a resultant of many design challenges that were decoded.
When the Principal Designerstook on this assignment, they chose to be inspired by the brand’s tagline – “Every art has a story.” The motivation fueling the process became the need to create a space that acts as the perfect vessel to exhibit curated items while offering an unmatched user experience.
“The client’s brief was precise & concentrated on creating a comprehensive layout of spaces that were classic, Vaastu compliant& that was packed with plentiful storage facilities without looking visually cluttered.”, shares the Designer. Layout-wise the store is split across two floors which are sectioned into zones for various display genres. The display solutions have been ingeniously conceived & have been executed as an organic part of the layout.
The ground-floor anchors curated décor items that have been blended into the design scheme, allowing one to envision the pieces in their unique setup. White PU & Wooden finish units dot the floor area & add to the neutral tone interior grammar which is further enhanced by the presence of the custom screen-printed grey & white patterned flooring. The central spine of the ground-level has tiered display pedestals which add to the minimal vibe of the space while being storage-efficient. The sleek staircase & almost every other structural element have also been used as a canvas to display the array of products at the store.
A house-shaped display unit visible from the outdoors on the mezzanine-floor suggests that this floor hosts décor & accessories perfect for children’s spaces. A composition of half-cut turning leg tables protruding from a wall surface has been utilized as an innovative display option which reigns in a pop of pink & blue hues. This floor additionally also incorporates the plush glass cubicle which is the director’s cabin. A rug ladder and bed linen display nook are an integral part of the floorplan & maintain the flow of spaces.
The built form makes an iconic statement while capturing the intrigue of market visitors who’d be drawn right in, thus bringing about a surge in the footfall at the venue. Ivory hued walls frame a clear glass façade & provide seamless views of the interiors, making it an inviting visual. “An ensemble of numerous three-dimensional diamond motifs strewn across the elevation, portrayan illusion of raining diamonds that embellish the façade wall. These motifs create an engaging play of light & shadow and wash the form in a dappled light at dusk.”, adds the Architect.
Blancora acts as a vanguard of design that is symbolic of modern aesthetic & functional finesse. The store has an endearing quality at an interior & exterior level that gives it a unique standing in the bustling nucleus of the city’s design-based retail circuit.
Fact File:
Project Name –Blancora
Designers –Ayesha Sheth& Ar. Ankit Shah
Design Studio – AS Architects
Text Credit – Lavanya Chopra
Photography Credit – Ar. Ankit Shah
Nestled within Prakriti Farms, this residence epitomizes rustic farmhouse interior design charm and a deep connection with the natural world. Its elegance lies in its emphasis on elemental materials and its seamless integration with the surrounding landscape. With three bedrooms and a spacious living area, the home was strategically designed in an L shape to […]
House of Heights: How design shapes relationships and well-being? “A house can transform its people. The living room, the tallest space in my home, is where we socialize, express our feelings, and spend the most time—an open arena for life’s conversations. The impact of front elevation design on home and harmony further emphasizes how thoughtful design […]
Spacious, inviting, and intimate, courtyards have an integral place in the vernacular architecture across India. Beyond their climatic purposes, courtyards assume the role of a social space, a space for contemplation, and a space where something happens. Their presence in various forms, proportions, and sizes has been a ubiquitous feature in Indian vernacular architecture. The […]
Located in Bangalore, opposite a large neighborhood park, a set of 4 houses was to be built—one of which was to be the personal house for the client, and the others were to be let out. The intent of these Bangalore homes was to create a quiet presence on the street and evoke a sense of […]
The modern residence integrates contemporary architecture with biophilic design principles, offering a luxurious and nature-connected living experience. The exterior features clean lines, landscaped lawns, and vertical green walls that soften the structure while promoting sustainability. The minimalist contemporary interior designs of this are designed with an open-plan layout, double-height ceilings, and large glass openings, ensuring […]
Some homes are big on square footage but don’t maximize space—and then some compact ones make the most of precious space at a premium. Located in Bangalore, this 3,000 sq. ft. villa interior design exemplifies this residential project, exploring staggered volumes that led to creating spaces at multiple levels, including a mezzanine floor. As per […]
In the heart of Gurugram, where the city’s energy pulses with both hard work and hard play, a 2600 sq. ft. rooftop terrace design has been transformed into the ultimate hangout spot. Designed for the young and the young at heart, this terrace captures the spirit of a city that knows how to balance the […]
In the vibrant town of Kannur, Kerala, the contemporary house design of this residence is more than a home—it’s a sanctuary designed to nurture both body and soul. Built for a family of five, it blends minimalist elegance with everyday comfort, creating a space that feels alive, welcoming, and deeply connected to nature. Editor’s Note: […]
The one-acre site of Saukhya Farm is nestled in the lush valley of Beze Village, on the outskirts of Nashik. Surrounded by small farms, it offers sweeping views of Beze Dam and the surrounding hills. The clients’ brief was to transform the site into a farmhouse and to cultivate part of it into an orchard. Work […]
Nestled on the bustling Karnavati Road in Ahmedabad, this modern residence spans over a 10,881 sq. ft. corner plot, seamlessly integrating form, function, and tranquility. The house is thoughtfully planned in an L-shaped configuration of this house design, with its entry oriented to the east and a lush garden strategically placed in the southwest corner […]