AN Design creates a memorial lighting showroom design in China that masterfully blends functionality, aesthetics, and emotional resonance, a fitting tribute to the Dongshang brand’s founder.
Contents
Genesis of the Project: A Memorial Endeavor
The Retroactive project, designed by AN Design, originated from a deeply personal request. Following the passing of Mr. Wang, the founder of the Dongshang lighting brand, his sister and wife approached AN Design with a poignant mission: to transform the existing showroom into a space that honored his legacy and carried the brand forward with a richer narrative. This desire for a commemorative space, imbued with emotional depth, became the driving force behind the design process. The existing showroom, situated within a bustling building materials mall in Qinhuangdao, China, presented challenges in its cluttered environment and lack of a distinct identity. The designers sought to carve out a unique and tranquil atmosphere within this chaotic setting, mirroring Mr. Wang’s character and the brand’s values. The integration of lighting design principles would be paramount, not merely as a product showcase but as a tool to evoke emotions and create a multi-sensory experience. lighting design showroom, showroom lighting design, lighting showroom design, design of lighting showroom
Design Concept: A Fusion of Functionality and Emotion
AN Design’s approach was guided by the need to balance the showroom’s operational functionality with its commemorative purpose. The space was divided into four distinct yet interconnected zones: an entrance area designed for emotional transition, a central circular space envisioned as a plaza for product displays and interactions, a product exhibition area showcasing Dongshang’s offerings, and a dedicated zone for original lighting solutions. The central plaza, a key element in the design, was conceived as a haven of tranquility within the bustling mall. The designers employed a combination of materials and lighting techniques to achieve this effect. Stone cladding was used to suggest a sense of permanence and stability, while painted surfaces alluded to the concept of an enclosed, intimate room. The play of light and shadow became a central theme, with a luminous acrylic facade, a transparent metal mesh ceiling, and strategically placed lighting fixtures creating a captivating interplay of brightness and darkness. lighting design showroom, showroom lighting design, lighting showroom design, design of lighting showroom
Architectural and Spatial Interventions: Crafting a Narrative through Form
AN Design’s architectural interventions were both subtle and impactful. The showroom floor was elevated to signify a transition into a distinct space, separating it from the surrounding mall environment. The facade incorporated adjustable lighting within its acrylic structure, adding visual dynamism and breaking the monotony of the exterior. The central plaza’s circular form, a deliberate departure from the mall’s rectilinear layout, aimed to enhance a sense of order and create a focal point for the showroom. The designers drew inspiration from traditional Chinese courtyard design, incorporating elements like simple table and stool arrangements reminiscent of rural settings. Natural light filtering through leaves was replicated through strategically placed lighting fixtures, adding a layer of depth and tranquility to the space. lighting design showroom, showroom lighting design, lighting showroom design, design of lighting showroom
Lighting as a Medium of Storytelling: Evoking Emotion and Memory
Light became a powerful tool for storytelling within the Retroactive project. The designers sought to create an atmosphere that was both introspective and inviting, mirroring the brand’s values and Mr. Wang’s personality. A carefully curated collection of antique and contemporary lighting fixtures, including a century-old French Art Deco chandelier, contributed to the showroom’s unique character. The interplay of light and shadow was used to evoke a sense of tranquility and contemplation, drawing on the principles of “yinyi” aesthetics, a concept rooted in East Asian philosophy that emphasizes the beauty of shadows and the interplay of light and darkness. This approach fostered a serene environment conducive to appreciating the intricate details of the lighting fixtures and fostering a deeper connection with the Dongshang brand. lighting design showroom, showroom lighting design, lighting showroom design, design of lighting showroom
Conclusion: A Testament to Legacy and Brand Identity
The Retroactive project stands as a testament to the power of design to transcend its functional purpose and become a vehicle for storytelling and emotional expression. AN Design’s approach skillfully blended functionality, aesthetics, and a deep understanding of the brand’s history and values. The result is a space that not only showcases Dongshang’s lighting products but also serves as a poignant memorial to its founder and a powerful embodiment of the brand’s identity. The showroom’s serene atmosphere, thoughtful use of materials, and masterful manipulation of light create an immersive experience that invites visitors to engage with the brand on a deeper level. The Retroactive project exemplifies how design can be used to create spaces that are both commercially successful and emotionally resonant, leaving a lasting impression on those who experience them. lighting design showroom, showroom lighting design, lighting showroom design, design of lighting showroom
Project Information:
Project Name: Retroactive
Project Type: Lighting Showroom Design
Architect: AN Design
Area: 220㎡
Project Year: 2024
Location: China
Main Materials: Stone, Paint, Acrylic, Metal Mesh
Lighting Design: Dong Shang Lighting/Chen Shengnan
Design Director: Liu Tianliang
Photography: Tupai
