Audrey Boutique, located on Shanyin Road in the Xiaoshan District of Hangzhou, is not just a fashion retail space but an immersive experience where the past, present, and future converge. Inspired by the timeless elegance and strong will of Audrey Hepburn, the boutique was conceived by Liang Architecture Studio, resulting in a multi-brand space that embodies the grace, confidence, and classic style synonymous with its namesake.
The boutique's design goes beyond mere aesthetics. It was born from a deep exploration of the attitudes and values that the space was meant to convey. The founder of Audrey, much like Hepburn herself, exudes a graceful yet resolute demeanor, which the design team aimed to express through the store's architecture. The design prioritizes a balance between soft and hard elements, encapsulating an eternal and confident attitude that resonates with the brand's positioning and target audience.
Rather than chasing after transient trends, the designers sought to create a dialogue between the past and the future. The space is a conversation, not just among its elements but also with its visitors, encouraging them to explore the timeless beauty it offers.
As customers step into Audrey Boutique, they are greeted by a semi-enclosed symmetric display area, setting the tone for the spatial experience that unfolds. At the heart of this area is a seating arrangement of five chairs, forming an intimate enclosure that welcomes guests with understated elegance. The use of symmetry and geometric forms is a recurring theme throughout the space, guiding visitors through a meticulously crafted journey.
The space is defined by the objects within it, with each object contributing to the layering and functionality of the area. Graceful curves and sharp geometric elements are seamlessly integrated into the store’s structures and display props, creating a cohesive and dynamic environment. The careful selection of materials—soft fabrics, retro wood textures, concrete, and metal—further enhances this effect, blurring the boundaries between different areas and adding depth and value to the space.
The boutique’s design is a study in contrasts, where retro elements meet futuristic visions. This "Retro-futurism" is evident in the interplay of materials and textures, which work together to create a dramatic yet harmonious space. Concrete display structures, softened by graceful curves, generate a comfortable and artistic atmosphere. The hanging clothes add to this ambiance, imbuing the space with a sense of freedom and creativity.
One of the most striking features of the boutique is the spiral staircase that connects the two floors. With its bold hue and spiral shape, it serves as a visual centerpiece, while the soft textile cladding on the steps adds a touch of romance and dynamism to the store.
The second floor of Audrey Boutique functions as a VIP display area, designed to elevate the shopping experience to a ritualistic level. The designers introduced church-like structures to this space, continuing the central-axis-based composition and symmetry of the ground floor. This area exudes a sense of holiness and tranquility, where freedom is expressed not through visual spectacle but through emotional resonance.
The space invites customers to immerse themselves in its atmosphere, guiding them to perceive the subtle attitude it conveys. Through the careful combination of colors, structures, and lighting, the design team has crafted an environment that not only showcases fashion but also communicates a deeper, more meaningful experience.
Audrey Boutique in Hangzhou is more than a retail space—it is a testament to the enduring influence of Audrey Hepburn and the timeless beauty she represents. Liang Architecture Studio has succeeded in creating a space where retro and futuristic elements blend seamlessly, offering visitors a unique and emotionally resonant experience. From its meticulously designed spatial structure to its thoughtful material choices, Audrey Boutique stands as a beacon of eternal beauty and confident elegance in the world of fashion retail.
Project Name: AUDREY Boutique
Location: Shanyin Road, Xiaoshan District, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
Category: Retail
Area: 300m²
Completion Time: March 2021
Design Scope: Interior, Decoration, Architecture
Design Firm: Liang Architecture Studio
Creative Director: Xu Liang
Chief Designer: Sun Yongfang
Design Team: Sun Yongfang, Zhou Zesi, Wang Xinyan, Cheng Pingping, Li Qing, Lu Xin, Xu Liang
Photographer: Shao Feng
Lighting Designers: Liang Wei, Yang Ke
Lighting Design Firm: Yaank
Construction Firm: Zhima Decoration Engineering Co., Ltd.
Main Materials: NEAYEA Micro Cement, Brushed Stainless Steel, KD Wood Veneer
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