Manolo Blahnik, Malaysia

For Manolo Blahnik’s first flagship in Kuala Lumpur the space called for something which evoked the brand’s personality yet imbued a sense of locality. Transforming a traditional material used in furniture making and artisan scaffolding, a forest of bamboo is the central motif of the space. Elegantly positioned in parallel, conforming to the plant’s natural growing pattern, the shoes are arranged in flowing lines, almost floating, picked out on individual brass shelves which follow the dark stained bamboo structure snaking around the space in graceful curves. The herringbone pattern marble floor is in-laid with brass detailing, inspired by palm fronds, and is mirrored in the brass canopy-like lighting above. Natural woven fabric in rich tropical colours is used for round ottomans and stools and accentuates contrasting metallic and stone finishes.This considered approach creates a counterpoint to the bustling surrounding area and a contemplative space to shop at ease.