For its U.S. entrée, Biotherm worked with designers to create a flexible vendor concept that would adapt to various configurations, yet hold its own among the throngs of health and wellness products available. To give shoppers easy access to product samples and information, an adjustable display unit was integrated into a curved, translucent shelving system. The fixture consists of vertical stainless-steel rods that may be attached at various points. Then linked to the rods are groups of sand-blasted Lucite components, which include a horizontal dish for product samples, a graphic/mirror frame and another holder for brochures or applicators.
Throughout, a sophisticated palette of translucent Plexiglas, tile and stainless steel evokes a spa or “wet” environment and provides a light backdrop to the merchandise. And aqueous allusions are presented via large-format water graphics, a wavy shelving system that seems to float and aqua-tile-accented flooring.
Client: Biotherm USA, a subsidiary of Cosmair Inc., New York — Christine Rannou, project contact for Union Square
Design: Architecture Research Office, New York — Stephen Cassell, partner-in-charge; Adam Yarinsky, partner; Reid Freeman, project architect; Alexandra Barker and Scott Abrahams, project team
Lighting Consultant: Architectural Lighting, New York
Contractor: Lakewood Construction, Point Richmond, Calif.
Suppliers: Quantum Fine Casework, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. (fixturing); Stonekrete The Products, S. El Monte, Calif. (flooring); Waterworks, New York (glass floor tile); Magis, Italy, and Kartell, New York (furniture); Acrylox Inc., Jersey City, N.J. (graphics); RSA Lighting, Chatsworth, Calif. Consumer Promotions Intl., Mt. Vernon, N.Y. (p-o-p fabricator); Duggal Color Projects, New York (large-format graphics); Colorwheel, New York (signage)
Photography: Cesar Rubio, San Francisco