In a new wave of thinking about bricks and mortar retail, innovative brands are reimagining the physical store beyond its four walls, creating spaces where merchandise looks more like art.
The newly opened Darial store in Barcelona’s Dreta de l'Eixample neighbourhood is a leading example of an experiential lifestyle outpost, boasting a carefully curated edit of fashion, furniture, art and books, as well as a brassiere-style restaurant. The concept was imagined by founder and creative director Djaba Diassamidze, the brains behind his eponymous ready-to-wear label, which offers sophisticated avant-garde womenswear. And equally, Darial’s 16,000 sq ft space carries a sense of Diassamidze’s flair that translates through the ground floor of Casa Tomàs Roger.
High-ceilinged raw concrete archways connect each of the rooms
Through a series of high-ceilinged arches, the space is visualised as a gallery concept, interweaving retail categories that flow naturally into one another. Gold-finished palm tree pillars stand bold against the white cube walls, while plush ivory carpets and black lacquer finishes seem reminiscent of an art deco film set.
Ready-to-wear offerings from over 100 brands can be found through the raw concrete vaults, from established names such as Loewe and The Row to up-and-coming brands such as Isaac Reina and Qasimi. Brands will also be available to buy online later this month with the launch of the e-shop. Meanwhile, furniture and design objects by the likes of Impossible Project and Bang & Olufsen are nestled within the fluid retail space. Custom-fitted wooden shelves serve a pared-down inventory of rare books and tomes, which tie together influential pieces across the art, design and fashion worlds.
Following the ceiling adorned with gold leaf sees the Le Léopard restaurant, which seats up to 70 visitors on the 19th-century banquettes upholstered in red velvet. The contemporary eatery serves a twist on French, Italian and Spanish cuisines, as well as offering an extensive list of classic and natural wines.
The last of the expanse sees a cloister-like gallery space, which can be used to host temporary art exhibitions and artist collaborations.
The inventory of rare books tie together influential pieces across the art, design and fashion worlds
The Le Léopard restaurant lies beneath a gold ceiling
Custom-fitted wooden shelves are finished in black lacquer
INFORMATION
ADDRESS
Carrer d'Ausiàs Marc 37,
08010 Barcelona
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