Chilia Clothing Store

Design + CA by author.

Tehran - Iran
2015

Design Idea

The irregular footprint of this store was the outcome of merging of the two stores. As a result, a column happened to be in the middle of the store. The initial thought was shaped around the idea of concealing two stand-alone columns and prioritizing the space into main and secondary spaces while maintaining the visual and physical connection between them and covering corners and irregularity of the whole space. Two cylinder geometries, made these ideas possible, and to support the bigger cylinder, the fourth column was added.

In the end, the overall appearance makes it seem that all of the columns had been constructed to support the new geometry while in reality, it had covered unwanted structures. To conceal the pipes and mechanical elements within the ceiling, a low-raised domed ceiling was devised which works well with the curved walls. All of the lighting and HVAC systems placed on the ceiling were divided into sections for ease of construction and supporting the hung clothes hangers from the gaps. These gaps also allowed the air to be circulated without having a return duct. 

final resualt

The side walls at entry are raised and suspended, as a result, no element touches the ground at the front face of the store. Continuation of the floor helps the better vision into the store from a distance while the main entry space is semi-closed.

To maximize efficiency, the leftover unused spaces are utilized as fitting rooms and storage rooms, and spots between storefront and curved walls are used for showcases.