Rabih Geha Architects

The setting, derived from Mediterranean architecture and the brand's aesthetic components, reflects Images d'Orient's embracing of diversity and its alliance of modern and old through a composite of cultural footprints. The facility, located in Ashrafieh, one of Beirut's oldest neighborhoods, serves two purposes: it is primarily a shop and also a studio. It opens with a façade of repeated arched windows that punctuate the store, displaying the continuation of arched doorways and displays once within.

The space adopts a lost in translation approach, in which explicit traditional references evolve into contemporary form; this is reflected in the use of modular lights with aluminum glossy reflectors, display in brushed stainless steel and brass details, and white undulating and perforated steel mesh. The area is dominated by Mediterranean-inspired colors, including grey Aggloceppo terrazzo flooring, brilliant white walls, blue arched openings, and a vibrant red roof.

The main shop area is a large rectangular space with four different types of displays: the central Statuario counter top, the L-shaped Stainless steel shelves fixed to the wall, the series of linear shelves embedded inside the blue painted arches, and the almost flat elements fixed to hidden storage cabinet doors. One can see the tiny tunnel behind the arched arches through the stainless steel shelves mounted inside them. The display gallery serves as a backdrop curtain for the shop, with white perforated undulating metal sheets for cabinet doors providing transparency. Images d'Orient items and distinctive pieces are highlighted, providing a "piece of Lebanon for anyone and everyone to hold." A small kitchenette and restroom are accessible through one of the repeated white mesh panels at the back of the 'Gallery'. The facility will also act as a creative launch pad for future projects, delivering the richness of Mediterranean history as announced by Images d'Orient.

References:

https://www.archdaily.com/932461/images-dorient-rabih-geha-architects?ad_source=search&ad _medium=projects_tab