ArchShowcase Sumit Singhal
Sumit Singhal loves modern architecture. He comes from a family of builders who have built more than 20 projects in the last ten years near Delhi in India. He has recently started writing about the architectural projects that catch his imagination. ABC Department Store in Beirut, Lebanon by KINNERSLEY KENT DESIGNMarch 20th, 2018 by Sumit Singhal
Article source: KINNERSLEY KENT DESIGN ABC is a name that has been engraved in the hearts and minds of the Lebanese shopper for over 80 years, ever since the retailer opened the Middle East’s first department store in Beirut in 1936.
The new 107,640 square foot ABC department store is the anchor for the new $300 million ABC Verdun community mall. The store features a stunning design by Kinnersley Kent Design, an award-winning design consultancy based in London and Dubai. Beirut is a city of contrasts, with an “energy, soul, diversity and intoxicating atmosphere that make it a vital, addictive city” (Lonely Planet’s Guide to Beirut). Taking inspiration from Beirut’s unique and distinctive personality, Kinnersley Kent Design created a store concept based upon juxtapositions, energy and theatre. The interiors are a vibrant mix of glamour, elegance and sophistication, with standout materials that contrast the gritty with the glamorous. The resulting aesthetic is premium, bold and contemporary, with an urban edge. Speaking about the project, Paul McElroy, Partner at Kinnersley Kent Design, commented: “The design of each of department follows a similar visual language and logic, but with a subtly different look and feel on each level to create strong individual departments. We developed new brand elements for ABC such as bespoke patterns based on the retailer’s logo, which strengthens ABC’s own identity in a stylish and understated way.” Tania Ezzedine, Head of Real Estate at ABC, commented: “We are very happy with the retail concept of ABC Verdun Department Store. With Kinnersley Kent Design, we have developed a clear design and identity for our department stores that can be rolled out to other projects. The new addition of Verdun to ABC’s portfolio has elevated the standards of the Lebanese retail scene, and initial feedback from customers and tenants is very promising.” Contact KINNERSLEY KENT DESIGN
Category: Stores |