Current Details
Seattle, Washington
Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen Architects

Clever displays for precious objects characterize this modest-sized store

© Mark Darley/Esto

For more photos click on 'photos & drawings' above. To see the people and products behind this project click on 'people & products.'

This small, museum-like store is dedicated to design-oriented products. Located in an older, brick building, the store occupies a narrow slice of space. During a recent building upgrade, steel-beamed x-bracing was added, complicating the plan of the store. Rather than dividing the space into smaller areas by concealing it, the x-brace was left exposed to preserve the spatial integrity. It adds an interesting geometry to the modest interior.

Display casework ranges from expressive to utilitarian, creating a variety of settings for the sophisticated merchandise. A channel glass wall at the rear of the store is illuminated, drawing patrons into the store. Display shelves along one side also make use of channel glass, allowing light to highlight and envelop the objects resting on them. Steel tables below the glass shelving form small alcoves that angle toward the rear, and visually direct the patron into the store. The opposite wall is covered in a grid of MDF boxes to isolate and emphasize the quality of each carefully crafted item. Splashes of color from the products on display contribute to the minimalist feel of the intimate space.

Formal name of Project:
Current Details

Location:
Seattle

Gross square footage:
1,100 sq. ft.

Total construction cost:
$65,000

Client:
Peter Miller & Ron Gawith

Architect:
Olson Sundberg Kundig Allen Architects
108 First Avenue South, Fourth Floor
Seattle, Washington 98104