IOKO

By

Bratislava, SVK
2022

About the project

A Fluid Space for Independent Eyewear

Designed for independent eyewear experts, this showroom challenges the conventional optic store by embracing the artistry and craftsmanship behind handmade eyewear. We drew inspiration from the natural materials used in eyewear production—such as cotton acetate—and extended this philosophy into the design of the interior. The result is a tactile, organic space crafted from clay, wood, and steel.

A Natural Palette and Organic Forms
Clay serves as the dominant material, shaping the walls in the form of fluid, organic plasters. These clay surfaces give the space a soft, natural aesthetic while guiding visitors seamlessly from the showroom to auxiliary areas, including the office and optician's examination room. The spatial transitions are marked by steel arches, which act as portals to subtly delineate zones without breaking the visual or functional continuity. This design approach emphasizes the fluidity and interconnectedness of the space.

A Deconstructed Tribute to Eyewear
The showroom’s layout is built around five key objects that function as sculptural elements while collectively forming an abstract, deconstructed representation of glasses. The two centerpiece features—the clay display table and a dichroic wave—highlight the showroom's conceptual depth.

The clay table, created in collaboration with ceramic artist Zheni, is a standout feature. Its surface treatment reflects Zheni’s signature style, with layers of hand-applied clay resulting in an irregular, organic structure. This table becomes a centerpiece that embodies the showroom’s ethos: a celebration of natural materials and artisanal craftsmanship.

The dichroic wave, emerging from the wall, is another striking element. With its reflective dichroic foil, the wave alters the perception of light and color within the space, creating a dynamic, ever-changing accent that contrasts with the otherwise soft and sandy tones of the interior.

A Delicate Balance of Artistry and Functionality
The entire interior is rendered in gentle, light, sandy shades, which provide a neutral backdrop to highlight the eyewear on display. This restrained palette, combined with the use of natural materials and sculptural forms, creates a tranquil yet innovative environment that elevates eyewear design into an art form.

This showroom is more than a retail space—it’s an immersive journey into the artistry and craftsmanship of independent eyewear, seamlessly blending functionality with an appreciation for natural materials and fluid forms.

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