Upon stepping into this 6,400 sq ft store in Banjara Hills (Hyderabad), one is immediately struck by the seamless integration of diverse elements, textures and techniques. Spread across two expansive floors, Woodage’s flagship store by Radhika Dhawan emanates a sense of minimalism and airiness that resonates perfectly with the brand’s identity.
The journey begins at the entrance foyer, where a metal console stands against a backdrop of vertically aligned veneered panels, showcasing an abstract pattern with an open grain finish. As visitors move through this area, their attention is drawn to a mesmerizing arch in the distance, setting the tone for the store’s aesthetic.
Continuing onward, one encounters a luxurious formal living area enveloped in wood, featuring meticulously polished veneers in a light walnut stain. This regal atmosphere is complemented by plush curtains, grand chandeliers, gold leafed mirrors, and elegant soft furnishings, all part of the ‘Deco Art Collection.’ This collection seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, transforming functional furniture into exquisite works of art that enrich the space with elegance.
Throughout the store, strategic paneling and varied themes in colors and textures effectively demarcate different sections, offering visitors a distinct experience with each transition. This thoughtful approach prevents monotony within the expansive space.
“Since it’s a commercial space, our emphasis was on maximizing functionality and ensuring free movement throughout the store. While we aimed to create a visually striking environment, we also needed to maintain a minimalistic design to accommodate the constantly changing display products” says Radhika.
A highlight of the store is a grand three-way arch, a distinctive architectural feature that not only enhances spatial dynamics but also leaves a lasting impression on visitors. This architectural statement seamlessly integrates with the store’s modern and contemporary sections, maintaining a cohesive design language that reflects the brand’s ethos.
The project was driven by the client’s need for a functional yet visually striking retail environment that facilitates ease of movement and accommodates changing product displays. Embracing an open layout with soothing colors and soft lighting was pivotal in shaping an inviting atmosphere conducive to enhancing the client experience. This approach struck a balance between the client’s practical requirements and the designer’s vision for an elegant space.
Among the project’s design highlights, the creation of the three-way arch stood out as particularly memorable. Initially unplanned, this feature evolved on-site to enhance the grandeur of a designated bedroom area, becoming a focal point upon entry. The team navigated challenges regarding space perception and height considerations, ultimately achieving a refined aesthetic with subtle metallic finishes and brushed gold accents.
Design challenges included architectural constraints on the second floor, where tapered walls limited usable height. Innovative solutions such as curved, angled walls with vertical paneling were employed to create an illusion of more space, complemented by a palette of pastel colors to maintain focus on the furniture.
In conclusion, this retail project exemplifies a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. By embracing a minimalist design philosophy and leveraging architectural creativity, the designers successfully realized a space that not only meets commercial demands but also inspires and delights visitors at every turn.
FACT FILE :
Name of the project: Woodage | Banjara Hills, Hyderabad
Firm Name: Woodage
Design Team and Designation: Radhika Dhawan | Principal Designer
Location of the project: Hyderabad
Area (Sq.ft): 6,400 sq ft
Photo courtesy: Sushant Sinha