Lines Between Fashion, Architecture and Performing Arts are Blurred in This Bucharest Boutique.

In an exceptional collaboration, fashion brand Maria Lucia Hohan has unveiled its first physical store in Bucharest, brought to life by Adelina Cucoranu and Bogdan Ciocodeica of Ciocodeica Studio. Inspired by the intricate craftsmanship and sculptural volumes of Maria Lucia Hohan’s evening wear, the interior takes cues from the world of theatre, creating an immersive environment that blurs the lines between fashion, architecture, and performing arts.

Entering the boutique feels much like stepping onto a theatre stage. The design evokes the moment a curtain rises, capturing the palpable anticipation and excitement of a performance about to unfold. The arch of the stage, rendered in straight, art deco-inspired volumes and covered in matching carpet, forms a monochromatic tableau that forms a striking backdrop for the fluid forms of the fashion pieces.

An Eye for Detail: Lunet Boutique by Bogdan Ciocodeica Studio.

Lunet pays homage to both the past and future almost simultaneously, with the air of an older, traditional eyewear store (read: colour palette) juxtaposed with space-age material and lighting choices.

“Our goal was to create a space that transcends traditional retail design, offering visitors a truly immersive experience that reflects the artistry and craftsmanship of Maria Lucia Hohan’s collections,” Adelina Cucoranu explains. Bogdan Ciocodeica adds: “By drawing inspiration from the world of theatre, we aimed to evoke a sense of anticipation and drama, transforming the boutique into a stage where fashion takes centre stage.”

A key element of the design is a silver curtain inspired by Pina Bausch’s dance play “Full Moon,” symbolising a stream of splashing water. This feature slices through the monochrome interior, introducing a dynamic and contrasting texture that captures the essence of movement and drama. Mirrors, adorned with lipstick-coloured velvet and exuding a strong art deco vibe, mark the entrances to the changing rooms. These mirrors, alongside silver chrome hanger bars that seem to vanish into the velvet curtains, add to the boutique’s theatrical atmosphere.

Constructing a Persona: Up There Melbourne Store by Kennedy Nolan.

From bold colour choices, sculptural mascots at the door, clever use of integrated lighting, reflective metal surfaces paired with lustrous, yet sparing fabric choices across the fitting rooms, the physical gestures in Kennedy Nolan’s design deliver an abstract space devoid of time or place.

The design doesn’t stop at visual elements; it engages the senses by inviting curiosity. The windows, draped with curtains that reveal only the upper stage, draw passersby into this unique world. Inside, the furniture is sparse yet significant, featuring geometric pieces with substantial volumes made from California Burl and mirrors. Even the vintage Camaleonda sofa has been reupholstered in the same velvet hue, reinforcing the sense of a meticulously crafted set.

Ciocodeica Studio’s design is a masterclass in blending harsh, masculine lines with curvy, feminine silhouettes, where each element contributes to an overall narrative of artistic synergy. “This boutique is a dream come true,” Maria Lucia Hohan concludes. “It not only showcases our designs but also tells a story of creativity and collaboration. A space where fashion, art, and architecture come together in perfect harmony.”

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The altar-like space reflects Stone Island’s approach to product design and experimentation with materiality. AMO put off-the-shelf materials through rigorous and unique treatments to achieve different appearances and properties.

[Images courtesy of Ciocodeica Studio. Photography by Vlad Patru.]