Smart Design Studio - Sydney Architects

Optique Barangaroo

Smart Design Studio was asked to devise a space for Optique, an optometrist with a carefully curated collection of eye ware. It was important that this third space, at Barangaroo, had a similar look and feel to the two earlier stores. The common visual language, combining white with light and colour, reinforces the existing brand identity. Here, light emanates from the Barrisol ceiling, whereas previously it was bounced around by mirrored boxes.

SDS devised the stretched ceiling form as an elegant and arresting way to enhance and celebrate the uniquely shaped ceiling. An illuminated coloured light box hovers above the crisp white ceiling and floors. The effect is captivating and conceptually references what eyewear does; to tint, alter or enhance the image. It adds warmth and drama to the otherwise white space and washes the customer in soft complementary light. By night, the LED lights can be adjusted to a more dramatic colour combination to attract passers-by.

 

Clean white leather panelling allows the optical frames and sunglasses to take centre stage. These unfussy upholstered display panels encourage interaction with the product and double as joinery doors housing additional stock and cases. This means that the sales area is also the stock room, creating a retail space where the limited footprint is incredibly practical and efficient, and the customer is not left unattended.

The sharp corner site with glazing on two out of four sides determined the layout. While display needed to be optimized, it was limited to the two solid walls that also conceal essential back of house spaces. Positioned in front of a long window, the custom designed Corian counter looks beautiful from all sides. It presents as a sculptural element that relates to the ceiling above

SMART DESIGN STUDIO ARCHITECTURE FROM THE INSIDE OUT

Processing...
Thank you! Your subscription has been confirmed. You'll hear from us soon.
ErrorHere