concept by sowe roots ugaoo's flagship plant store in biophilic design in pune, india

concept by sowe’s nature-inspired ugaoo flagship store

As India’s largest plant nursery and gardening brand, Ugaoo commissioned a flagship retail space in Pune, India to embody their biophilic values and create an immersive experience. The result, designed by Concept by Sowe, is a vibrant, evocative destination that forges a deeper connection between people and plants. The biophilic design approach for the store focused on a seamless dialogue between nature and architecture, where organic materials, spatial flow, and lush plant displays converge into a cohesive environment.

Ugaoo’s Pune flagship by Concept by Sowe features a lush, arched façade where greenery flows through terracotta-toned frames, merging biophilic design with the urban street edge

plant-centric retail design

Concept by Sowe‘s design for Ugaoo’s Pune flagship storie is inspired by the brand’s deep commitment to nature, evident in the integration of earthen aesthetics and natural textures. The visual identity is defined by the consistent repetition of key architectural motifs – arches and branches – which guide visitors through the store with an intuitive, rhythmic flow. The building’s prominent façade features a series of arches framing lush greenery on each level, creating a powerful visual statement that reinforces Ugaoo’s plant-centric ethos.

the arched façade frames the urban streetscape while terracotta textures and lush indoor plants create a seamless dialogue between the exterior and biophilic interior

The journey through the store is an invitation to explore. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a custom reception table beneath an elegant archway, which frames a pyramid-shaped shelving display. This design subtly demarcates zones while preserving an open, flowing atmosphere. The shelving systems, custom-designed to complement the space, integrate terracotta-inspired finishes and organic curves, displaying plants in an artful and accessible manner.

solid wood shelves and terracotta-toned archways guide visitors through the store, creating a warm, intuitive pathway that enhances both flow and user experience

The first floor is anchored by a tree installation crafted from structural steel and timber, serving as both a sculptural element and a display hub. Plants cascade from its branches, creating a dynamic yet airy atmosphere. This space, along with a communal table, fosters interaction and hands-on engagement with plants. The top floor houses a flexible workshop and event space, encouraging community activities like terrarium making and educational sessions. This curated journey through the store gradually deepens engagement, transforming it from a traditional retail environment into an immersive destination.

arched pathways and solid wood shelves guide movement, while small nooks throughout the store foster community, inviting visitors to pause, engage, and connect within the biophilic space

pyramid-shaped shelves offer easy access and display, thoughtfully designed to house smaller plants while creating a sculptural focal point within the store’s layout

a central tree-like installation anchors the space, its branching structure designed to showcase hanging pots and plants, adding height, drama, and a sense of organic movement

multiple arches along the facade enhance the urban streetscape and create an ideal space for product displays, blending architecture with functional design

terracotta textures, indoor plants, and flowing arches together embody the brand’s essence, creating a seamless and inviting journey through the space

community tables across floors offer inviting spots to pause, enjoy the plants, and connect with others, fostering interaction and shared experiences

project info:

name: Ugaoo Store

location: Pune, India

design studio: Concept by Sowe
designer: Shamna Stranc / Rujuta Killedar / Wojciech Stranc

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.