Introduction to The Shell
“The Shell” is a creative fusion of various approaches, functional requirements, and spatial dynamics, embodying Highsnobiety’s vision as a dynamic storytelling platform beyond traditional retail.
A Spatial Narrative
The Shell transcends a conventional retail space by presenting a spatial narrative that reflects tales of authenticity and Berlin’s distinctive roughness. It is a vibrant, ever-evolving environment designed to showcase cutting-edge brand installations, aiming to interact and tell stories rather than merely display and sell products.
The Four-Layer Design Approach
The holistic interior design of The Shell unfolds in four layers:
- Preservation and Artistic Finishes: The first layer maintains the building’s rough surface, enhanced with detailed artistic finishes.
- Permanent Installations: The second layer includes permanent features integrated into the first, displaying Highsnobiety’s core collections and accessories.
- Artistic Interventions: The third layer consists of artistic spatial interventions serving as functional retail furniture, defining Highsnobiety Space’s unique visual aesthetic, blended with an “under construction” theme.
- Brand Partnerships: The fourth layer offers brand partnerships the freedom to create visually striking temporary setups within the Highsnobiety Cosmos, adding a dynamic visual element.
Exploring Contrasts in Design
The design of The Shell explores contrasts between old and new luxury, blending themes of roughness versus sleekness and heritage versus modernity. Industrial materials are reimagined for a contemporary and luxurious context, while existing architectural elements are preserved to honor the space’s history.
Furniture and Material Contrasts
The furniture pieces within The Shell blend classical aesthetics with contemporary materials, resulting in captivating architectural elements. For instance, classical column moldings are applied to industrial styrofoam, creating a striking contrast. The design also preserves the heritage of the architecture, paying homage to Berlin through the use of raw brick columns, floors, and walls.
Captivating Atmosphere
The interior features a sanded concrete floor, a warm grey sprayed ceiling, and rough columns and walls that narrate the building’s history. These elements are contrasted by sleek interventions such as stainless steel shelves embedded in the walls. The lighting concept by ERCO enhances the atmosphere, while the checkout area juxtaposes contemporary materials like wired glass, polystyrene, and stainless steel, reflecting the building’s ornamentation. A paravent made of stainless steel, wired glass, and mirrors conceals changing rooms and adds a touch of voyeurism with wired glass partitions.
Conclusion
Highsnobiety’s The Shell is a testament to the power of creative fusion, functional design, and spatial storytelling. By embracing contrasts and preserving architectural heritage, it creates a unique and dynamic retail environment that continually evolves and engages its audience.
