Featuring 75 displays of various kinds, the fifth edition of this unique series focuses on the designs involving the merchandise sold at retail stores and related businesses. The projects utilize a range ...
This South American store’s ‘new language’ includes elements of whimsy and mystery, such as letters and symbols from around the world – and a secret room.
In designing flagships around the globe for Christian Louboutin, Eric Clough, principal of 212box (New York), says “Christian and I spend a lot of time designing a unique aspect into each store.”
Those efforts, including clear acrylic displays and arched wall niches that treat a single shoe as a piece of art, have become signature elements within Louboutin’s luxurious red and white environments.
In São Paulo, Louboutin’s quest to create a “new language” translated into a striking textured façade that’s covered in more than 9000 non-repeating wood tiles, including letters from more than 28 world languages and 400 symbols. “Our goal was to tap into our relationship with language and our innate ability to assign meaning to symbols and letters,” says Clough, who adds that there are hidden message within the tiled walls.
The fun and mystery continue inside, where a secret VIP room, for visiting celebrities and bridal parties, can be accessed using a sliding mirrored door. Here, a wall of one-way mirrors allows hidden glimpses into the main retail space.
Project Participants:
Design
212box, New York
General Contractor
Saeng Engenharia e Comércio Ltda., São Paulo, Brazil
Carpet
Clatt Carpete & Cia, São Paulo, Brazil
Furniture
Marton e Marton, São Paulo, Brazil
Glasses and Mirrors
Amaral Vidros, São Paulo, Brazil
Lighting
Trans Elétrica Iluminação, São Paulo, Brazil