called OKIO, this store designed by architectural practice taller KEN is freestanding in a shopping plaza where the façade acts as a giant billboard for the optometry shop. this approach allows customers to see through the storefront, and let in the natural light. 

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
the boutique is freestanding in a shopping plaza

 

 

one of the main features taller KEN integrated within the OKIO boutique is the large circular ‘oculus’ skylight, complemented by spotlights focused on the merchandise. furthermore, the store contains a retail area, exam room, restrooms and storage — with a natural color of wood that contrasts the cool white of the walls, forest-green millwork, the pastel-green terrazzo tiles and tropical plants from the exterior garden. mirrors of different shapes and sizes reflect the variations present on the ceiling and façade, creating a play of geometry throughout the store.

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
a display bar and cashier is located at the center of the space

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
warm natural wood tones contrast the cool white walls and green hues of the custom millwork and terrazzo floor tiles

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
eyewear by independent designers are displayed on adjustable white metal shelves

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
a central circular skylight floods the store with daylight

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
mirrors through the store reflect a play of geometric shapes

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
all furniture pieces were designed by taller KEN for OKIO and fabricated by local carpenters

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
cat eye motif of the facade is incorporated into several of the millwork pieces

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
merchandise and mirrors are supported on floor-to-ceiling wood dowels

taller KEN shapes OKIO eyewear boutique with playful geometries in guatemala
floor plan level 0

 

 

project info:

lead architects: gregory melitonov ines guzman
project location: guatemala city, guatemala
completion year: 2016
gross built area: 80 sqm
photo credits: byron marmol, marcelo gutierrez

 

 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: lea zeitoun | designboom