Akin Atelier designs Camilla and Marc store in Melbourne as "homage to the sense of touch"

The Nakhla Brand Store is a retail pavilion situated within the Grand Egyptian Museum, designed by Yasmina Makram. This project represents an expansion for Nakhla, a long-standing family-owned jeweler, establishing a presence in a prominent cultural location. The design for this 55 square meter space, completed in 2023, was undertaken by Yasmina Makram's architectural firm, with key contributions from Mohamed Nour and Samir Aiyad for concept and layout, and Hana Faltas for construction drawings. Nour El Refai provided the photography. The store's design brief focused on creating an inviting atmosphere that blends the brand's heritage with contemporary aesthetics. The material palette includes wood, steel, and stone, contributing to a sophisticated and enduring character. The lighting design, handled by Enlighten, plays a crucial role in highlighting the jewelry and creating a warm, engaging environment for customers. MEP design was managed by Hassan Allam, ensuring functional efficiency within the space. A distinctive element of the store is a headlight piece designed by Omar Chakili and a sculpture by Nathan Doss Artist, adding unique artistic touches. The interior layout was carefully planned to optimize the customer experience and showcase the jewelry effectively. This involved strategic placement of display cases, seating areas, and interaction points. The use of natural materials aims to create a connection to the brand's authentic craftsmanship and the cultural context of its location. The design team also focused on ensuring the retail space is both elegant and practical for daily operations. The project underscores a commitment to detailed interior design, integrating architectural elements with artistic installations to create a cohesive brand environment. The choice of materials and the collaborative effort of various designers and consultants reflect a comprehensive approach to retail space development. The store is located in Kafr Nassar, Egypt, aligning with its presence in a significant national museum. Overall, the Nakhla Brand Store exemplifies a harmonious blend of historical context, brand identity, and modern retail design principles. #RetailDesign #InteriorDesign #JewelryStore #MuseumsAndExhibit #CommercialArchitecture #YasminaMakram #EgyptArchitecture #BrandExperience #ModernDesign

The often-overlooked restroom in a retail establishment, particularly in jewelry stores, plays a crucial role in creating a complete and cohesive design experience for both clients and employees. Interior designer Leslie McGwire emphasizes that a stylish and well-decorated bathroom can make a significant statement, countering the idea that these spaces should be out of sight and out of mind. Several jewelry stores have successfully integrated their overall design concept into their restrooms, demonstrating that attention to detail in these smaller spaces can elevate the customer experience. For instance, Tanmai in Irving, TX, owned by Sanjay and Sapna Singhania, extends its elegant store theme into the restroom with gold and bronze finishes, unique wallpaper, wall-sconce lighting, sleek fixtures, and patterned-tile flooring. This design draws inspiration from architecture and design seen in Las Vegas, ensuring a seamless aesthetic throughout the establishment. Wanna Buy a Watch in West Hollywood, CA, designed by interior designer June Robinson Scott, embraces its distinctive quirkiness in the restroom. With vibrant red walls, framed prints, and a crystal chandelier, the space achieves a romantic, vintage ambiance. Owner Ken Jacobs notes that the chandelier, initially intended for disposal, became the central inspiration for the boudoir-style bathroom. Northeastern Fine Jewelry in Albany, NY, underwent a $1.3 million renovation, meticulously planned by Michael Roman of C2 Design Group. The focus on experiential design led to a restroom described as the “Wynn Hotel in Albany.” The store’s Vice President, Gregg Kelly, developed the concept based on extensive research, ensuring that the upscale and timeless aesthetic, characterized by high-end finishes and cool lighting, extends into every detail of the restroom. At Fakier Jewelers in Houma, LA, the comfortable, residential feel of the main store is seamlessly carried into the restroom. This is achieved through windows adorned with plantation shutters and floor-to-ceiling draperies, sophisticated furniture-style fixtures, and inviting, plush seating. Owner Manon Fakier collaborated with French Mix by Jennifer Dicerbo Interiors to bring this cohesive vision to life. Other examples highlight various design elements. Clarkes Jewelers in Shreveport, LA, uses colorful walls and flattering lighting to enhance the restroom experience. Coughlin Jewelers in St. Clair, MI, incorporates patterned tiles, art on the walls, and even a live plant—a suggestion from interior designer Ruth Mellergaard to add oxygen and natural air freshening. The Jewelry Design Center in Spokane, WA, makes a bold statement with a distinctive sink, interesting textures, a decorative mirror, and dramatic wall-sconce lighting. John Atencio’s Boulder, CO, location showcases a sleek and seamless restroom design that perfectly complements the store’s modern aesthetic and the jewelry designer’s signature style. Kelley Jewelers in Weatherford, OK, designed by Leslie McGwire herself, features white brick walls, large-scaled side tiles, 1-inch by 4-inch glass tile stripes, gold bar lights and faucets, and a square sink with a high-end counter, all contributing to an extra design splash with highly patterned porcelain. Sather’s Leading Jewelers in Fort Collins, CO, creates an elegant atmosphere with a gold mirror, colorful artwork, and an interesting backsplash design, offering a unique family-friendly touch with two sinks. The Diamond Center in Janesville, WI, also designed by Leslie McGwire, maintains a contemporary feel with black, gray, and white tones. Large porcelain floor tiles extend up the walls, while a streamlined black granite counter, contemporary faucet, and brushed silver horizontal mirror complete the look. Metal strap artwork further reinforces the modern design. Williams Jewelers in Englewood, CO, provides a distinct experience with separate “His and Hers” bathrooms. The women’s restroom features white porcelain tiles embedded with 1-carat Swarovski diamond-shaped crystals, a flush-mounted crystal light fixture, and sconces, creating a sparkling “wow” effect. The men’s room, in contrast, offers a masculine design with porcelain wood floors extending halfway up the wall, a decorative tile border, and a highly textured large mirror coordinating with the room’s color palette. Finally, YLANG YLANG in St. Louis achieves understated elegance with a chandelier, gold fixtures, and modern flooring. These examples collectively illustrate that the restroom, far from being a purely functional space, can be an extension of a store's brand identity and a key component in enhancing the overall customer journey and aesthetic appeal. #jewelryStoreDesign #restroomDesign #interiorDesign #retailExperience #luxuryRetail #architecturalDetails #customerExperience #designInnovation

This article explores how ten jewelry retailers have innovatively transformed blank walls within their stores into engaging and brand-enhancing features. The core idea presented is to view an empty wall not as a void, but as a canvas for creativity and opportunity to enrich the customer experience and reflect the store's unique brand identity. Several broad categories of wall treatments are discussed, including murals, mirrors, and curated displays. Specific examples from various jewelry stores illustrate these concepts. Shaftel Diamonds in Houston utilized a vibrant, gem-filled mural by local artist Anat Ronen on their patio wall, enhancing the outdoor space and aligning with the store's "fun and engaging" vision. King's Fine Jewellery in Alberta, Canada, created a 'natural attraction' with a 22-foot preserved moss and geode art installation, complemented by a 7-foot aquarium, bringing a unique natural aesthetic into the retail environment. Just Desi in Beverly Hills features a dried flower wall that serves as an appealing selfie station, encouraging customer interaction and social media sharing. Adornment + Theory in Chicago dedicated a wall to a library nook, allowing customers to explore jewelry history and adornment, which also incorporates miniature 3D jewelry showcases. Kennedy’s Custom Jewelers in Blue Springs, MO, opted for a casual and welcoming vibe by featuring a simple, fitting message scrawled directly on one of their 4,000 square-foot store's walls. Fiat Lux in San Francisco incorporated colorful wallpaper depicting trees and animals, further enhanced by gold resin drips painted by artist Caroline Lizarraga, a design element that reflects the store's slightly 'punk rock' reputation. Greenwich St. Jewelers in New York City embraced the city's 'gritty' character by having muralist Mason Nye create a custom subway grate stencil pressed into plaster for their back wall, adding an urban edge to an otherwise elegant space. Julez Bryant in Solana Beach, CA, uses a collection of colorful glass bottles, gathered over 30 years, as a distinctive and seasonally adaptable decorative feature. Moonrise Jewelry in Cape Charles, VA, created an interactive back-wall installation that functions as a swatch board for their specialty fish leather, allowing clients to customize colors using magnetic fish that 'swim' across a hand-painted river. Lastly, William Travis Kukovich in Chapel Hill, NC, transformed an entire wall into an impressive display of his awards and press clippings, establishing instant credibility and showcasing his extensive experience and expertise as a bench jeweler and designer. These diverse approaches highlight the versatility of blank walls in retail settings. #JewelryRetail #StoreDesign #InteriorDecor #WallDecor #RetailExperience #VisualMerchandising #CreativeSpaces #CustomerEngagement

The Lost & Found OōEli store in Hangzhou, designed by B.L.U.E. Architecture Studio, represents their second collaboration with the lifestyle brand 'Lost & Found.' This project is situated within OōEli, a comprehensive art park in Hangzhou, developed by Renzo Piano, which integrates offices, art spaces, retail, design hotels, and exhibition areas. Lost & Found is known for offering solid wood furniture, ceramics, utensils, fabrics, and plants, all contributing to a cherished daily life. The design philosophy behind the OōEli store aims to extend the brand's core concept of 'home' into a retail environment, fostering a sense of familiarity and appreciation for everyday objects. The spatial design of the 225 square meter store emphasizes materiality, natural textures, and artisan craftsmanship, aligning with Lost & Found's commitment to art and daily life. The architects sought to create a retail experience that transcends a typical showroom, instead offering a space that feels like a home where products are naturally integrated into living scenarios. This approach allows customers to envision how these items might fit into their own homes, enhancing the connection between the brand's offerings and personal lifestyle. Key design elements likely include the use of natural wood, reflecting the brand's furniture focus, alongside other organic materials that evoke a sense of warmth and authenticity. The layout of the store is presumably organized to guide visitors through different 'rooms' or vignettes, each showcasing a curated collection of products within a simulated domestic setting. This experiential design encourages exploration and interaction, making the shopping process more engaging and less transactional. B.L.U.E. Architecture Studio's design for the OōEli store is a response to the brand's ethos of valuing craftsmanship and the aesthetics of everyday living. The project is an example of how architectural design can effectively translate a brand's philosophy into a physical space, creating an immersive environment that resonates with its target audience. The store's location within OōEli, a hub for art and design, further reinforces its positioning as a destination for those who appreciate thoughtful design and quality lifestyle products. #RetailDesign #InteriorDesign #LifestyleBrand #Materiality #ArtisanCraftsmanship #HangzhouArchitecture #ExperientialRetail #BlueArchitectureStudio

Yasmin Sewell, a former fashion editor, has returned to New York City's SoHo neighborhood with a pop-up store for her scent-focused wellness brand, Vyrao. This venture, designed in collaboration with the renowned architectural firm OMA, known for its work with luxury fashion brands like Prada, Loewe, and Jacquemus, is described by Sewell as more than just a retail space; it's an "energetic experience." The pop-up is scheduled to operate until November 28. The collaboration between Sewell and OMA's David Gianotten and designer Helena To aimed to create an open and ethereal environment. The design emphasizes color, light, and a sense of flow, moving beyond traditional retail aesthetics. A key feature of the store's layout is a series of mobile "totems," which function as discovery points for customers. Each of Vyrao’s ten fragrances is displayed on a pedestal, framed by floor-to-ceiling curtains. These curtains are printed in colors that correspond to the individual scents, creating a visually immersive and thematic presentation for each product. Gianotten highlighted that the project's appeal stemmed from Sewell's focus on "mood" rather than just perfume or luxury, signaling a departure from conventional approaches in the fragrance industry. This perspective influenced the store’s innovative use of visual and interactive elements. The brand's logo, crafted from four-foot-tall mirrored letters, is prominently placed at the entrance. This installation interacts with looping projections of Vyrao's past campaign imagery, inviting visitors to engage with the brand's visual history. LED lighting further enhances the store's atmosphere, with subtle color shifts that animate the space, creating a dynamic and evolving environment. Gianotten noted that this "bombardment of imagery" was designed to attract attention and allows for diverse visual interpretations, ranging from natural green tones to more intense red hues, each evoking a different energy. Beyond the primary retail area, the pop-up includes a distinctive egg-shaped space at the back, situated under a skylight. This area is designed to encourage visitors to linger and connect with the brand on a deeper level. The concept of connection is further reinforced through various collaborations featured within the store. Notably, ceramic cups handmade by actress Lake Bell are available for purchase and are used to serve Keith’s Cacao from Guatemala. Additionally, a curated selection of books by Isabella Burley of Climax Books is offered, contributing to the experiential aspect of the space. Sewell emphasized that the intention behind the pop-up transcends typical shopping; it's conceived as a sanctuary where individuals can "slow down, breathe, and feel," offering a holistic wellness experience rather than merely a transaction. #RetailDesign #PopUpStore #ArchitecturalInnovation #ScentWellness #ExperientialRetail #OMAArchitects #SoHo #LuxuryRetail

Anna Franklin, founder and CEO of Stone House Collective, has opened the full-service interior design firm's first retail space in Shorewood, aiming to create a comprehensive home design hub. The new storefront, which officially opened earlier this month, reflects the firm's signature aesthetic of organic textures and serene tones, a style applied to both residential and commercial projects. Franklin's vision for the space is to engage all five senses of visitors from the moment they enter, offering an immersive experience into the world of interior design. The store is designed to meet various design needs, from full-scale home makeovers to individual item purchases. It features a curated selection of products from community partners and manufacturers with Wisconsin roots. These offerings include high-quality fixtures from Kohler, plumbing solutions from Able, and appliances from Sub-Zero. For decor and finishing touches, Talking Walls provides wallpaper, and Twig + Ember offers a signature candle scent. Shoppers can also find new and vintage art pieces, as well as a dedicated lighting display wall, catering to those looking to add fresh elements to their homes without undertaking a complete renovation. Furniture options are also available, including new pieces for those simply wishing to replace a sofa. Franklin emphasizes the store's commitment to quality, stating that all items are sourced to be durable and long-lasting, avoiding what she calls 'throwaway furniture.' While the store offers items across various price points, Franklin highlights that even their entry-level couch, priced at $5,000, is built for longevity. A notable exclusive offering at Stone House Collective is Parachute bedding, making it the only retailer in Wisconsin to carry the brand, which otherwise operates through its own brick-and-mortar stores across the U.S. Franklin clarifies that the intention behind carrying products from other companies is not to compete but to provide a convenient destination for individuals interested in design. If Stone House Collective's design firm cannot provide a specific service, they are committed to referring clients to trusted community partners who can. Looking ahead, the store has plans for a grand opening event on May 30, which will include food, drinks, and live painting to celebrate its arrival in Shorewood. Additionally, Franklin intends to collaborate with Sub-Zero Group, a luxury kitchen brand known for Cove and Wolf products, to host private dining experiences within the showroom. Seasonal additions to the store's inventory will include outdoor furnishings, timed to coincide with the summer season, further expanding the range of products and services available to customers. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #Shorewood #RetailStore #AnnaFranklin #OrganicDesign #HomeFurnishings #LocalBusiness

The Malbon golf apparel shop in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, designed by Los Angeles-based studio 22RE, draws inspiration from the local natural landscape and Spanish-style architecture. This design approach is evident in the store's material palette and interior layout, aiming to create an atmosphere that resonates with the coastal town's unique character and the spirit of outdoor activities, particularly golf. The store's interior features a thoughtful layout designed for both aesthetic appeal and functionality. A central, partially enclosed booth houses the service counter, strategically positioned to allow unobstructed views of the entire interior from both storefront windows. This design choice maximizes visibility and creates an inviting, open feel. Between the front glass facade and the service booth, a raised area is covered in a lush, grass-hued carpet, cleverly mimicking a small putting green, further enhancing the golf theme. Material selection plays a crucial role in establishing the desired ambiance. The walls are finished with scalloped plaster in Portola's Brooks Roman Clay shade, which contributes to a warm and tactile environment, reminiscent of a traditional golf clubhouse. These scalloped walls are elegantly trimmed with vertical boards of Douglas fir, a wood that also features in the millwork for door and mirror frames, ensuring material consistency and a refined finish throughout the space. The flooring predominantly features terracotta-toned Zia tiles, laid in varied patterns. In the front section of the store, the tiles are arranged in a straight-stack pattern, transitioning to a more intricate herringbone pattern towards the rear. This variation in tile pattern adds visual interest and subtly defines different zones within the retail space. The rear area also includes minimalist metal clothing rails integrated into wood-lined niches for product display. Another niche is fitted with a velvet cushion, providing a comfortable seating area for shoppers. Lighting and custom elements further elevate the store's design. A drum-shaped walnut podium at the back of the store is illuminated by a ruched-fabric Celestia pendant lamp, designed by Tobia + Afra Scarpa for Flos, adding a touch of sophisticated design. Custom door handles, carved from wood into double semi-cylindrical pulls, are a unique feature of the fitting room doors, demonstrating attention to detail. The fitting rooms themselves are a continuation of the store's design language, with the terracotta Zia tiles extending from the floor up the walls, creating an immersive and cohesive environment. Full-height mirrors amplify the sense of space, while a single Foglia sconce by Studio Tetrarch for Valenti introduces a sculptural modern element. This project is not 22RE's first collaboration with Malbon; the studio previously designed the brand's Miami location, which was characterized by pale-green stucco inspired by the city's colors and golf courses. Additionally, 22RE, founded by Dean Levin in 2021, has completed other notable projects, including offices for a creative music agency that drew inspiration from 1970s aesthetics. #RetailDesign #GolfApparel #InteriorDesign #CarmelByTheSea #22REStudio #TerracottaTiles #DouglasFir #ScallopedWalls #BoutiqueDesign

The article explores innovative showcase strategies employed by jewelry retailers to enhance the customer experience. Jewelers and interior designers are embracing stand-alone showcases that facilitate a more personal and interactive sales approach, allowing customers to view jewelry from various angles and sales associates to engage shoulder-to-shoulder with them. This shift breaks down traditional barriers, fostering a friendlier and more personal interaction. Additionally, this approach optimizes space, as stand-alone cases require significantly less clearance from walls compared to conventional setups. The article highlights the importance of showcase height, recommending 42 inches for optimal viewing in most cases, and 36 inches for sit-down consultations. Several examples illustrate these strategies. Hyde Park Jewelers in Scottsdale, AZ, uses a design that maximizes display density while maintaining a light, airy feel by eliminating case bases and metal glass frames, creating a glass-on-glass aesthetic. Their curved and squared case configurations add visual interest, and perimeter displays allow for brand customization within a cohesive design. Marks Jewelers in Montgomeryville, PA, features completely mobile, four-sided glass showcases, enabling over two dozen floorplan changes within 18 months, complemented by unique permanent features like a Diamond Diner and a bar. Mitchum Jewelers in Ozark, MO, incorporated a transition area housing a Shinola boutique. Their showcases are designed for "front-sale" interaction and are illuminated by recessed white LED lights. The expansion also created more space for sales, storage, a vault, and private meeting rooms. S. Lennon & Company Jewelers in New Hartford, NY, transformed a narrow building into a bright showroom with quartz desks for consultations and custom, open-leg showcases to avoid overwhelming the space. Custom white shelves allow clients to touch select pieces. B.C. Clark’s Oklahoma City location features a circular centerpiece case near the entrance, showcasing new arrivals and changed monthly to maintain freshness. Kelley Jewelers in Weatherford, OK, created a boutique shopping environment with open shelves and a built-in mirror, encouraging independent browsing. Day’s Jewelers in Nashua, NH, utilizes a circular design for its exterior glass wall, casework, and ceiling, guiding customers through the space and maximizing linear display, also creating a central lounge area. Erik Runyan Jewelers in Vancouver, WA, emphasizes airy traffic flow and side-by-side selling with distinctive, hand-built Old World-style cases. Falls Jewelers in Kannapolis, NC, employs sit-down cases for bridal consultations and front-opening, walk-around cases for general displays. Storey Jewelers in Gonzalez, TX, integrates large, custom-designed walk-around islands, front-opening displays, and bridal sit-down cases, alongside traditional center island cases. JC Jewelers in Jackson Hole, WY, utilizes modern wood cases in their log-cabin store to create a natural synergy and an open center for side-by-side selling, achieving a "Manhattan in a cabin" aesthetic. M Robinson Fine Jewelry in Bee Cave, TX, features four gracefully curved islands that guide clients, with linear cases along walls for branded collections. The curved cases and drop-down ceilings create a balanced, luxurious feel, fostering an open yet intimate showroom experience. Provident Jewelry in Wellington, FL, eliminates traditional counters to remove barriers between staff and clients, encouraging exploration. Park Place Jewelers in Ocean City, MD, makes a grand first impression with a curved island near the entrance, complemented by curved glass showcases, chandeliers, and vaulted ceilings, directing customers towards the point of sale in the back to ensure full store engagement. #JewelryRetail #ShowcaseDesign #RetailExperience #StoreLayout #InteriorDesign #CustomerEngagement #JewelryStore #VisualMerchandising #InnovativeDesign

Following his appointment as creative director at Celine, Hedi Slimane has swiftly implemented his vision, significantly transforming the luxury brand. His initiatives include removing the accent from the brand's 'e', introducing menswear lines, and reshaping womenswear. A cornerstone of this transformation is the global rollout of his new retail concept, driven by Celine's CEO Séverine Merle's strategy to expand the brand's footprint with larger flagship stores capable of showcasing the broadened menswear and womenswear collections. This expansion began in March with a 5,000 sq ft New York flagship and two new addresses in Paris: a remodelled two-storey space on rue de Grenelle for both menswear and womenswear, and the brand’s first dedicated menswear flagship on rue François 1er. By mid-April, new boutiques had opened in major cities including Tokyo, Shanghai, Los Angeles, Madrid, Milan, and London, with a Beijing store slated for later in the year. Each store, designed in collaboration with Celine’s in-house team, possesses a unique character while adhering to common design principles. A strong emphasis is placed on natural stone and bold materials, with massive, richly veined slabs of marble, granite, and travertine adorning walls, shelves, and columns. Basaltina lava stone covers the floors. These materials, with their contrasting patterns, are reflected in large mirrors and steel surfaces, creating a visually dynamic environment. Reclaimed oak, alongside wood and leather furniture, introduces warm brown accents that complement the sleek black-and-white palette. Many surfaces, such as the creamy Bianco Raffaello marble and ginger-veined black granite, are noted for their smooth, tactile qualities, inviting touch and offering a departure from the typical coldness associated with stone. Slimane's architectural style is characterized by rigorous lines, evident in the intersecting seams of concrete floors, parallel shelving, and rectangular metal displays. Despite this precision, the designs maintain a sense of weightlessness; display cases and shelves appear to hover, and materials, like brushed steel and Grande Antique marble, are positioned in close proximity without directly touching. This creates an effect of suspension and delicate interaction between elements. The stores also feature a new collection of furniture designed by Slimane, alongside vintage 1960s and 1970s pieces that highlight French woodworking. Slimane’s furniture, primarily made from light or dark plywood, is minimalist and evokes the simplicity of children's building blocks or primitive thrones, with future plans for retail. A significant aspect of the new concept is the Celine Art Project, which integrates contemporary artworks by established and emerging artists. These pieces, either acquired or commissioned, add another layer of sensory engagement; examples include Rindon Johnson’s yellowed rawhide cube wrapped in rope and Shawn Kuruneru’s ink-and-acrylic paintings that echo the marble patterns. The rue de Grenelle store's centerpiece is a site-specific installation by Oscar Tuazon, reflecting Slimane's commitment to combining global brand strategy with a passion for supporting young talent in music, art, and creativity. #HediSlimane #Celine #RetailDesign #LuxuryFashion #StoreArchitecture #InteriorDesign #MaterialSelection #ArtIntegration #FurnitureDesign

This article highlights three new home decor boutiques that have recently opened in Southwest Florida, specifically between Sanibel and Naples, in 2025. These shops, celebrated for their distinct styles and community contributions, are recognized for bringing character and purpose to the local retail landscape. The first featured shop is the STARability Home Collection, located in the Naples Design District. This expanded home decor shop is noted for its unique business model, where 100% of its proceeds support programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The collection primarily consists of high-end, secondhand finds, meticulously sourced and curated. Anne Fleming, the former general manager of Waterside Shops and a 2024 Gulfshore Life Woman of the Year, played a pivotal role in launching this new location, leveraging her luxury retail expertise and extensive network to secure top-quality donations. These donations include items such as Roche Bobois dining chairs, a John-Richard credenza, Natuzzi leather sectionals, velvet sofas, and vintage books, all maintained in excellent condition. Interior designer Monica Lukas is responsible for arranging these items into polished, showroom-ready vignettes, effectively showcasing the breadth and quality of the inventory, which can sometimes amount to a full house's worth of donations. Next, the article introduces 41 Home & Garden, an interiors-focused extension of Christian Busk’s well-established greenhouse and garden shop, also situated in the Naples Design District. Opened in the fall of 2024, this showroom showcases a blend of character-rich pieces, including Art Deco Donald Deskey originals, midcentury modern silhouettes, and Sicilian ceramics, all presented within a refined and relaxed setting. Christian Busk, known for his nearly 50 years of experience in transforming outdoor spaces, applies his keen eye for design to interiors. He personally curates the collection through extensive travel and estate sale exploration, combining deliberate selections with spontaneous finds. The store's unique appeal stems from this mix of precision and serendipity in its curation, inviting visitors to appreciate each item's story and craftsmanship. Assistant editor Annamarie Simoldoni notes the care evident in Christian’s selections, describing the shop as a thoughtful addition to the local design scene. The third shop is Home by Rachel Pierce, a boutique on Sanibel Island that opened last summer. Founded by Rachel Pierce, an NBC-2 anchor turned artist, the shop embodies a beach-forward aesthetic, earning a strong following for its breezy and well-edited collection. Sandy Stilwell Youngquist, a local restaurateur and Gulfshore Life Community Advisory Board member, highlights this shop as a standout new addition to the island. The interior design of Home by Rachel Pierce features seafoam green upholstery, octopus-patterned pillows, and various shell decor, complemented by curated furnishings sourced by co-owner Lauren Speas. Rachel Pierce actively engages her network of local makers, ensuring the shop remains deeply rooted in Sanibel’s creative community and reflects the natural beauty of the island. Collectively, these three establishments contribute to Southwest Florida’s home decor shopping landscape by offering diverse styles, supporting noble causes, and bringing unique curatorial visions to the forefront. #DesignInspiration #HomeDecor #RetailDebuts #SouthwestFlorida #Shopping #InteriorDesigners #LocalBusinesses #Philanthropy #ArtDeco #MidcenturyModern #CoastalStyle

Pink Moon Saloon, located in Adelaide, Australia, is a notable new bar designed by Matiya Marović of Sans Arc studio. The project was conceived within a narrow, disused laneway measuring only 3.6m wide, presenting a significant design challenge. Marović's innovative solution involved creating three interconnected spaces, each utilizing a different type of Australian timber. This design approach is inspired by Tadao Ando's Azuma House in Osaka, particularly its concept of a central courtyard that allows natural light to permeate the covered front and rear sections of the structure. This layered design enhances the sensory experience for visitors as they move through distinct areas, promoting a sense of discovery and transition. The bar's name, 'Pink Moon Saloon,' is a tribute to Nick Drake's album 'Pink Moon,' reflecting a pastoral influence that is evident in the bar's aesthetic. The design incorporates natural materials and a 'hermetical, mountain cabin' style, creating an ambiance that would likely have appealed to the singer-songwriter. The interior is divided into three primary zones. The front section, dubbed the 'drinkers' hut,' offers a curated selection of Australian beverages, including wines from the nation's premier regions and craft beers from boutique breweries. Featured items include a spelt ale from Tasmanian brewers Two Metre Tall and a Pinot Gris from local vintners The Other Wine Co. Moving further into the establishment, visitors encounter a courtyard area. This space features Calypso stools, designed by Melbourne's Beeline Design and hand-painted by Marović, providing a welcoming spot for guests. Here, patrons can enjoy the bar's signature cocktail, the Pink Moon Clover Club, a concoction made with gin, raspberry, lemon, and egg white. The rearmost section of the bar houses a romantic log-cabin diner, offering a more intimate and quiet setting. This area is dedicated to a dining experience focused on slow-cooked meaty dishes, complemented by a selection of Barossa Valley red wines. The overall design emphasizes a multi-sensory experience within its compact footprint. Marović’s design skillfully navigates the constraints of the narrow site to create a diverse and engaging environment. The use of varied Australian timbers and the integration of a central light-filled courtyard contribute to the bar's unique character. Pink Moon Saloon is presented as a destination that not only serves food and drink but also provides a distinctive architectural and atmospheric experience, satisfying various senses through its carefully crafted spaces and offerings. The bar's design and concept underscore a thoughtful integration of architectural inspiration, local materials, and a curated menu, making it a noteworthy addition to Adelaide's hospitality scene. #AdelaideRestaurant #BarDesign #Architecture #InteriorDesign #AustralianTimber #MatiyaMarović #SansArcStudio #HospitalityDesign

Daniel Lalonde, CEO of Design Holding, a prominent luxury multibrand group in the high-end interiors market, outlines his strategic vision for the company's future, focusing on making the experience of purchasing high-end interior products more accessible. Design Holding, established through Investindustrial's acquisitions of Flos (2014), B&B Italia (2015), and Louis Poulsen (2018), has expanded its portfolio to include nine brands, such as Maxalto, Azucena, Arclinea, Fendi Casa, Audo, and Lumens. This consolidation has positioned the group as a significant entity in design-led, luxury interior products, operating in over 130 countries with ten manufacturing facilities. Lalonde, who assumed the CEO role in late 2021, brings extensive experience from luxury multi-brand companies like LVMH, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, and SMCP. He acknowledges the transition from high fashion to interiors as a "leap of faith" but recognizes commonalities in heritage, craftsmanship, and the use of top designers. The company's brands collectively boast an extensive collection of works from celebrated designers, including modern classics by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, Poul Henningsen, Arne Jacobsen, and contemporary pieces by Tobia Scarpa, Antonio Citterio, Philippe Starck, Naoto Fukasawa, Jasper Morrison, and Piero Lissoni, among others. The group also actively seeks emerging design talent. A key aspect of Lalonde's strategy involves shifting the sales model to be more consumer-centric. Historically, over half of Design Holding's business relied on wholesale channels. To address this, the company has opened a 25,000 sq ft retail center at 135 Madison Avenue in New York. Designed in part by Lissoni & Partners, this flagship store provides distinct spaces for each brand, offering a comprehensive multibrand experience. This move aims to engage architects and designers, who significantly influence furniture sales (up to 45% in the US), by providing an immersive environment for both professionals and consumers to make informed decisions. Technological advancements are also integral to the strategy, with new e-commerce platforms and a configurator app being developed for individual brands. However, Lalonde emphasizes the importance of physical interaction with products, which the Madison Avenue store facilitates. The company is also exploring other innovative showcases, such as the West Coast model home at the Mandarin Oriental Residences in Beverly Hills, which features B&B Italia products exclusively. Lalonde's role includes maintaining the distinct identity and character of each brand while fostering collaboration. He highlights the complimentary nature of the brands, noting, for example, the different design DNA between a B&B Italia sofa and a Maxalto sofa. Collaborative efforts among contract teams across brands are encouraged, especially for large projects. The group includes Italian brands (B&B Italia, Maxalto, Azucena, Flos, Arclinea, Fendi Casa), Danish brands (Louis Poulsen, Audo), and the San Francisco-based Lumens. Sustainability and ethical practices are central to Design Holding's environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) strategy. The company prioritizes product longevity, quality, ease of maintenance, and repairability. They also focus on sourcing sustainable and ethical supply chains, with benefits extending across all nine brands, such as sourcing wood from certified forests. The preservation of traditional manufacturing techniques and skills is also a priority, with investments in technical schools in Italy to ensure the continuity of craftspeople. The company is also targeting expansion into new markets, particularly Asia, where there is a large luxury market but a relatively nascent high-end design market. Plans are underway to open stores in China, as Design Holding aims to bring the enduring value of design to a global audience. #DesignHolding #LuxuryInteriors #FurnitureBrands #RetailStrategy #DanielLalonde #SustainableDesign #GlobalExpansion #DesignInnovation #Craftsmanship

The article highlights Heather Chontos's collaboration with Layered, focusing on a new rug collection that translates her abstract paintings into hand-tufted rugs. The collection aims to capture the depth, color, and shape of Chontos's artwork, making her vibrant and expressive pieces accessible as functional home decor. These rugs are presented as a unique way to bring art into interior spaces, offering both visual appeal and tactile quality through their hand-tufted construction. Following this, the article introduces Clé's refreshed Architect's Palette tile collection. Clé has updated this classic collection by introducing a silkier matte glaze and expanding the available color palette. This refresh aims to provide designers and homeowners with more sophisticated and versatile options for tiling projects, emphasizing an earthy touch that enhances the collection's aesthetic and functional appeal for various architectural and interior applications. The ORA Lamp Series by Dana Harel, from White Dirt Studio, is also featured, showcasing sculptural lighting crafted from gypsum cement, muslin, and brass. These lamps are noted for their unique forms and the way they play with light and shadow, adding an artistic element to any room. The design combines diverse materials to create visually compelling and structurally interesting lighting fixtures. Fireclay Tile's new customizable bath fittings collection marks the company's expansion beyond surface materials. This new venture allows for personalized bath designs, giving customers more control over the aesthetics of their bathrooms. The collection emphasizes customization, enabling a cohesive and unique look when paired with Fireclay's extensive tile offerings. Molteni&C's Milan showroom and its top products are explored, conceived as the home of an astute collector. The showroom acts as a curated space displaying a range of high-end furniture and decor that reflects a sophisticated and eclectic taste. This segment offers a glimpse into the brand's design philosophy and product highlights. Visionnaire's new Italian-luxe showroom in London's Design District is also presented, inviting readers to explore its opulent offerings. The showroom is designed to exhibit Visionnaire's luxurious furniture and home accessories, providing a destination for high-end interior design inspiration and purchases. Lawson-Fenning's NoHo shop in New York, designed by Josh Grene, is highlighted for its glowing terra-cotta hues. The shop's design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, showcasing the brand's furniture and decor in a distinctive setting that emphasizes natural tones and materials. Ege and Snøhetta's collaboration on a carpet collection, Matter, is introduced, which reimagines flooring with generative flatweaves. This partnership combines innovative design with functional materiality, offering floor coverings that are both aesthetically engaging and practical for various commercial and residential applications. Finally, the article mentions several other product highlights, including an array of seating designs for a fall refresh, Carole Baijing’s understated furniture collection for Geiger, Slalom’s sustainable acoustic panels made with FSC-certified wood and recycled materials, Rop van Mierlo’s bold and shaggy rug series for CC-Tapis, Hem and Kusheda Mensah’s playful ottoman collaboration, Jiang Qiong Er’s poetic bamboo collection for Roche Bobois, Kevin Walz’s colorful collaboration with Ralph Pucci, Kriskadecor and Rafa Ortega’s nature-inspired Khronos collection with acoustic properties, and Jill Malek’s pastel glass mural panels inspired by natural phenomena. #InteriorDesign #ProductLaunch #HomeDecor #TileDesign #LightingDesign #FurnitureCollection #Showroom #TextileArt #AcousticPanels

The newly opened 1.3.5_c store, located in Amsterdam's Canal District, offers a unique retail experience focused on olfactive treasures. Situated in a listed 1930s red brick building designed by architect Henk van Kempen, the ground floor has been transformed by Amsterdam-based interior design practice Carbon Studio. The building previously housed a tobacco firm's offices and later a boutique for renowned jewelry designer Hans Appenzeller. The store is divided into two distinct spaces. The first, dubbed 'The Lobby,' is a lofty, light-filled area dedicated to the ZENOLOGY collection, a brand co-founded by seasoned fragrance professional Jeroen Oude Sogtoen. This space pays homage to ZENOLOGY's roots in hospitality, featuring understated yet inviting interiors with lacquered oak surfaces, whitewashed walls, and terrazzo tiles. A prominent square cushioned bench with a circular backrest, flanked by recessed and stainless steel shelving units, anchors the space. The material palette and immersive ambiance of 'The Lobby' aim to balance nature and science, reflecting ZENOLOGY’s brand philosophy. Here, customers can explore ZENOLOGY's full range of home, skin, and hair care products, along with body skincare and home fragrances. Beyond ZENOLOGY products, 'The Lobby' also curates a selection of lifestyle offerings. These include exclusive teas from Mariage Frères, handcrafted suitcases by FPM, and various accessories. Additionally, the space features immersive travel stories from the iconic Holiday Magazine, appealing to a discerning demographic seeking more than traditional retail. The second space, 'Backstage,' is semi-concealed behind a draped velvet curtain and is dedicated to PANTOMIME fragrances, also co-founded by Jeroen Oude Sogtoen. This boudoir-inspired room is characterized by full pleated splendor, theatrically presented, and is overlaid on one side by a sizable minimalist display unit. A Brutalist oak display table firmly anchors the setting, its robust form balanced by more delicate objects such as glass and ceramic artworks. The use of similar terrazzo tile flooring in both 'The Lobby' and 'Backstage' subtly connects the two distinctly designed areas. 1.3.5_c aims to provide an elevated shopping experience through its design-led premises and tightly curated merchandise. The store plans to feature a rotating selection of artworks, vintage objects, design pieces, rare books, photography, and exclusive lifestyle products. This approach is intended to resonate with a savvy clientele, offering them not just products but also an enriching cultural and aesthetic experience. The store is located at Grimburgwal 1-3-5C in the Canal District of Amsterdam and is open from Wednesday to Saturday. #Amsterdam #StoreOpening #InteriorDesign #CarbonStudio #ZENOLOGY #PANTOMIME #Fragrance #RetailExperience #LifestyleProducts

This monthly series, "In Our Carts," highlights a curated selection of new product launches and collaborations in the home and lifestyle sphere. The June 2024 edition features a range of items, from bedding and rugs to furniture, lighting, and kitchenware, all chosen for their design and functionality. One of the notable collaborations is between Danish home brand Tekla and Artek, which resulted in a new line of bedding. This collection includes duvets and shams in three colors, adorned with Finnish architect Aino Aalto’s Kirsikankukka pattern, inspired by a Japanese scarf. The collaboration also marks Tekla's first venture into kids' bedding. Cold Picnic, known for its printed rugs, has expanded its offerings with a new collection of richly hued, solid-color rugs. These nature-inspired designs, such as Grass Green, Roasted Tomato, Sky Blue, and Pear, are crafted from 100% New Zealand wool, providing a luxurious feel underfoot. Dusen Dusen has introduced three new vibrant and graphic throw pillow designs: Daisy, Hourglass, and Ricrac. These pillows come in bold colors like sunflower yellow, denim blue, and Kelly green, adding a playful touch to home decor. CB2 has launched new alabaster sconces designed by Australian studio VUUE. These hand-carved alabaster globes are available in two sizes, 6 and 10 inches, and offer a blend of old-world glamour with a modern sensibility, suitable for various interior and exterior settings. Fashion designer Carly Cushnie has collaborated with Lulu and Georgia on her first furniture collection. This 11-piece line showcases a mix of materials, including cane, wood, bouclé, fringe, and velvet. Standout pieces include the warm-toned Yucca sofa and the burl-wood Sabal console table, offering extensive mix-and-match possibilities. Opinel has released a cleverly designed grilling set that emphasizes simplicity and utility. The stainless steel tongs are extra-long with notched tips and a curved edge for effective gripping. A unique feature is the folding knife that ingeniously transforms into a spatula handle, complete with a Virobloc locking ring. The knife handle also integrates a bottle opener, enhancing its functionality for outdoor cooking. R+D Lab has partnered with Mexican chef Elena Reygadas and Fenn Apartamento to create the Rosetta collection of glassware. This collection features three new glass shapes—Acqua, Sour, and Martini—inspired by ancient vessels discovered in Pompeii. While named for specific drinks, these versatile glasses are suggested for various beverages, such as white wine in the water cups and cordials in the stemmed glasses. Finally, Belgian architect Vincent Van Duysen continues to expand his collection with Zara Home. The latest additions emphasize natural materials like wood, concrete, and solid brass, featuring pieces such as a daybed, a library system, and organically shaped concrete side tables. Dark brown is a prominent color throughout this new iteration of the collection, reflecting a sophisticated aesthetic. Baggu has also collaborated with Collina Strada on a line of limited-edition prints for its reusable bags, picnic blankets, and towels. A new highlight from this collaboration is the Horse Bag, a mini zippered pony-shaped bag, and the Boxer Plaid print on the Small Cloud carry-on, combining playful design with practical application. #ProductLaunches #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #TextileDesign #Furniture #Lighting #Kitchenware #DesignCollaborations #NewArrivals