ABFD
The client approached nemaworkshop with an assorted collection of luxury items including jewelry, art and vintage accessories, all of which she wanted to exhibit and sell. Jewelry stores and galleries have reputations for being intimidating and cold. Seeking to reverse this trend, nemaworkshop proposed a space which was both welcoming and comfortable. The architectural strategy for creating this warm and inviting atmosphere is twofold: programmatically, maximize the kinds of social interactions within the space and formally, draw inspiration from the collection itself which emphasizes animals and vegetation.
Birdcages hang from the ceiling and allowing the floor space flexible while simultaneously displaying large objects. Along the wall a series of rotating fins frame the most precious objects during opening hours and at night close, creating a sculptural wall. nemaworkshop proposed a nighttime light installation, making the store an afterhours cultural asset to the community. The integration of informal gallery, bar, lounge and over-counter shopping provide an array of potential social interactions during opening hours and in the evening the space transforms into public art piece for the neighborhood. Ultimately, the space reinvigorates the gallery and jewelry store models by infusing the luxury hybrid with informal spaces for casual conversations.