WOSA Sintered Stone Showroom

The Volks Design Research & Consulting Ltd.

Short description

Located in the vibrant heart of downtown Shanghai, an aging factory measuring 580m2 has undergone a remarkable transformation, giving rise to an extraordinary retail space that reimagines the traditional concept of a lightweight sintered stone material showroom. This visionary project aims to create a retail experience that goes beyond the ordinary, drawing inspiration from the realms of museums and urban landscapes. Let us delve into this exceptional space, where artistry, liberation, and a deep appreciation for stone as an aesthetic masterpiece take center stage.

Breaking free from conventional sales tactics, this retail space offers discerning customers a liberating and sensory journey akin to wandering through a museum. Visitors are encouraged to freely explore the carefully curated spaces, evoking an atmosphere reminiscent of an elegant art exhibition. Each stone tile is treated as a masterpiece, meticulously arranged to showcase its unique qualities and inherent beauty.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a captivating translucent curtain made of lightweight sintered stone, setting a magical tone for the immersive adventure that lies ahead. Beyond this ethereal barrier, a small plaza adorned with artful marble stone sculptures awaits, providing a versatile setting for future gatherings and events. Continuing the transformative experience, a series of distinctive buildings unfold, each serving as a captivating showcase of diverse stone materials, architectural forms, and construction techniques. These structures mirror the dynamic nature of a vibrant cityscape, enticing visitors to delve deeper into their enchanting embrace.

Passing through the translucent stone curtain, a gentle slope leads to a serene black sanctuary crafted from stone and light—a haven of tranquility unrivaled in its uniqueness. The sanctuary's facade consists of layers of lightweight black stone slabs, expressing its distinctive purpose. Inside, lightweight sintered stones with marble patterns are displayed as paintings on the black wall. The sloping path within the sanctuary offers ever-changing perspectives, granting glimpses of the outside world, akin to observing a city from different vantage points. Ascending further, a circular golden staircase wrapped in sinuous thin golden stone slabs reveals a breathtaking sight—a magnificent VIP chamber with mirror-polished metal finishes, seemingly suspended above a delicate water feature, evoking an air of mystery.

Throughout this captivating journey, visitors encounter a range of spatial configurations, evoking the sensation of navigating through a bustling metropolis. Towering spaces exude grandeur, intimate corners invite introspection, cozy nooks provide a sense of familiarity, while open expanses beckon with endless possibilities.

Continuing the exploration, visitors cross a delicate water surface and arrive at a futuristic stone showroom adorned with LED screens, showcasing the story behind each lightweight stone material and the brand. Turning around and ascending a flowing staircase, they finally reach a hardscape featuring volcanic-like formations, unveiling an indoor landscape that invites boundless exploration. This meticulously crafted terrain, reminiscent of a lush park, fosters a spirit of playfulness and liberation, enticing visitors to relax, recline, and embark on a personal voyage of discovery. Nestled within this verdant expanse, a contemporary black and white stone geometric sculpture takes center stage, transcending its mere form to become a functional bar counter—a convivial space where individuals can gather, savor drinks, and passionately discuss the potential of incorporating these exquisite stone materials into their own spaces.

This groundbreaking retail concept goes beyond its primary purpose, offering discerning customers an unforgettable fusion of art, architecture, and spatial exploration. Immerse in this captivating stone city, visitors find themselves enveloped in a symphony of the senses, where the diverse qualities of stone materials unfold, architectural forms mesmerize, and moments of profound contemplation arise. With its museum-like ambiance, unrestricted exploration, and unwavering emphasis on the aesthetic allure of stone, this space leaves an everlasting impression on its patrons, forever reshaping their understanding of what a retail showroom experience with lightweight sintered stone can truly be. It stands as a testament to the boundless creative possibilities that emerge when art and commerce harmoniously intertwine.