Gentleman Store

Building Reconstruction — Tri Architects

We have been collaborating with the investor for a long time. From the generous plan for the extension of the apartment building, they ultimately decided to start with the realization of the expansion of commercial spaces into the basement and the static preparation for future extensions.

The core of our work thus remains invisible, hidden beneath neutral yet quality surface materials. And so it should be. We are even more pleased that the commercial space was rented by an enlightened client who commissioned the design of the store from the ORA studio.

Our design primarily involves transforming the original basement spaces into commercial spaces. We leave the magnificent vaulted rooms unplastered. Darker surfaces of the brick vaults and stone walls are complemented by a new light ground of polished concrete, separated from the old walls by a distinct joint. The ground floor only undergoes a facelift; a more significant intervention is the new terrazzo staircase that connects the basement to the ground floor. We carefully searched for the location of the staircase. We succeeded in choosing a place that naturally connects to the entrance. We find a balance between an economical and comfortable solution with the least possible static intervention.

The material palette of the spaces is moderate so that they are as universal and timeless as possible.

Interior Design of Gentleman Store — ORA

We were approached for the interior design of a boutique in a space that had just been very well reconstructed. Therefore, there was no need to create complicated backdrops or hide anything. We do not turn away from the existing architecture; on the contrary, we embrace it. We do not overshadow the space but rather complement it naturally. The design also addresses the issue of quality goods in retail. It is not so empty that it approaches a gallery, fetishizing individual pieces too much, nor is it so crowded that products blend into a single mass. We seek a balance between both positions.

Craftsmanship
The store focuses on high-quality predominantly British men's fashion. Therefore, the interior avoids ostentation and instead leans towards asceticism. The designed furniture is simple, transparent, but perfectly crafted in detail and uses only a few quality materials. We avoid all substitutes. We want the interior to invite touch and to feel solid.

Playfulness
We want customers to enjoy exploring the interior as much as we enjoyed designing it. We let our geekiness shine through. We are more interested in how the item is constructed than how it looks at first glance. We want the interior to stimulate exploration at a second glance.

Furniture
Stable craft tables made of solid oak planks, prominently featuring wood defects and traditional joinery. The tables reflect craftsmanship. They are striking solitaires set on the ground.

Light hanging racks represent the lightness of the construction. Although they are delicate, they can hold a large amount of clothing. They are not just for decoration but for utility. They are balanced by rough limestone stones that were removed from the house during reconstruction. We discovered them in the yard where the landlord had stored them.

Bent pieces of metal serve as shelves. Simple raw material, simple repetitive motif. We leave most of the shelves open; there is no need to hide the products; on the contrary.