Yes, I am finally back with a new blog post! I've been really busy with school assignments and I would like to share some things I learned from them. This year I'm learning more about the design of the retail environment and scenography. I learned that designing a retail space takes a lot of research and that you can learn from the mistakes and successes other retailers make. That's why I decided to share two projects that I find inspiring, enjoy!
Maison Bab has opened. A modern kebab concept at 4 Mercer Walk in Covent Garden. It comprises a modern kebab house with space for 45 covers at ground level and 30 in the basement. The interior includes opulent finishes and geometric patterns with a dusty pink color theme. Downstairs there is a feature wall, with 50 000 playing cards and an exposed mise en place kitchen.
Kebabs offer a huge width of culinary scope and this restaurant wants to celebrate that diversity. Their philosophy is not only using quality ingredients but giving the diners a very different experience. In my opinion they really changed the marginal connotation that kebab has. We see it as a cheap, not healthy and low quality food but Maison Bab changes that whole perception. They do this by emphasizing the use of quality ingredients but also by creating a beautiful interior design. This project shows how much power the right concept and interior design can have.
The miami-based contemorary accessorie brand Miancai took their products on the open road with stops in South Beach in Miami, the Dumbo neighborhood of New York, and the Hamptons. They recently launched some leather goods and singet rings and wanted to test the markets without having to commit to a formal lease or be locked in a specific place. They can do this independently, by selling their products from a 1965 Piaggio Scooter, a 1976 Fiat and a 1949 Airstream. Each of these units tap into the brands nautical theme with the use of custom-made walnut furniture, antique light fixtures, original parts of the vehicle, black marble and copper accents.
Personally I really love the design and the idea of using the vehicles to test out your market first. You are not locked in one place and you can travel around but I do think it is important to analyze the places you want to place the vehicles, you have to check if these places match with the type of customer your brand wants to attract. Otherwise this concept will not work.
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