Sheila Kuminah
Kookai
Retail Store
Pre-design condition:
The building was constructed in 1955. Currently an existing clothing store.
Client Brief:
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Maintain and enhance the brand's commitment to elegance and sophistication in the store's design.
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Seamlessly blend Kookai's French heritage with Melbourne's diverse demographics to create an atmosphere of local charm and international allure.
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Incorporate innovative smart technology and display units to elevate the shopping experience.
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Prioritise sustainable design elements that align with the brand's commitment to environmental responsibility.
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Create an environment where women feel confident, free to express their unique style, and immersed in an atmosphere of grace.
Project:
Retail Interior design
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Location:
Shop 1, 288 Flinders st,
Melbourne
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Year:
2021
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Software:
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SketchUp
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V-Ray
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Su Podium
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Photoshop
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Adobe Lightroom
Concept and Features:
Nestled in the heart of Melbourne's bustling CBD, Kookai epitomizes the brand's unwavering commitment to elegance, chic sophistication, femininity, and confidence. Here, the 'Event Theory' concept reaches its pinnacle, meticulously crafting a shopping experience that transcends the ordinary. This retail sanctuary seamlessly interweaves Kookai's rich French heritage with the vibrant tapestry of Melbourne's diverse demographics, resulting in a captivating blend of local charm and international allure.
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Upon entering, state-of-the-art smart mirrors stand ready to enhance your experience, and elegant display units ensure that your journey through the store is not only visually pleasing but also highly efficient. The spatial planning within the Kookai flagship store prioritizes a seamless and inviting shopping experience. Cleverly positioned change rooms offer customers privacy and comfort when trying on garments, while point-of-sale stations are thoughtfully arranged for efficient transactions. The store's layout encourages customers to explore its offerings in an organized and fluid manner.
In terms of materiality, the interior features soft, tactile fabrics that enhance the sensory experience, and the lighting and colour choices create a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing atmosphere, reinforcing a sense of confidence and grace. Innovative smart mirrors offer interactive elements, allowing customers to experiment with different looks virtually, while curved display units effectively showcase products, making it easy for customers to browse the collection.
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Sustainability is integral to the design, incorporating eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient lighting, and other environmentally responsible features, underscoring the brand's commitment to a responsible shopping experience. Sustainability is central, resonating with the brand's steadfast dedication to environmental responsibility. However, the Kookai flagship store is more than just a retail space; it stands as an inviting haven where women are not only free to express their unique style but also immerse themselves in an environment that exudes confidence and grace.
Concept Board
Material Board
Drawings
Plans & Elevations
