Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Suspended Glass Displays and Natural Stone Accents in a Retail Environment

Author:
Ismael Lamas
Suspended Glass Displays and Natural Stone Accents in a Retail Environment

Project in-detail

Suspended glass displays illuminated by targeted lighting create an immersive retail experience accented by natural stones, inviting customers to engage with jewelry in a gallery-like setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended display cubes create a floating effect that draws attention to the jewelry.
02
Natural stone elements are incorporated into the display design, enhancing the theme of transformation.
03
The lighting strategy includes focused beams that highlight individual pieces, enhancing visibility.
04
An open layout encourages exploration, resembling the flow of a gallery rather than a traditional shop.
05
Materials include a mix of glass and metal, ensuring durability while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.
"Stones" is an architectural design project that focuses on creating a unique retail environment for jewelry. It transcends conventional shopping experiences by emulating the atmosphere of an art gallery. The project aims to engage customers both aesthetically and emotionally, positioning jewelry not merely as products but as curated pieces akin to artifacts in a museum. This approach allows visitors to explore and connect with the jewelry in a reflective manner.

The spatial configuration of "Stones" features a large, open area that enhances the perception of volume and light. The design incorporates suspended display cubes that are strategically placed at varying heights, drawing attention to the showcased jewelry. The lighting is designed to create emphasis on these displays, utilizing ambient light that contrasts with the darker surroundings. This method further highlights the jewelry pieces, creating an inviting and contemplative shopping environment.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinctive aspects of "Stones" is the integration of natural stones beneath the display cubes. This element serves both a functional and symbolic purpose by providing stability while also reinforcing the theme of transformation from raw materials to fine jewelry. The choice of materials, including transparent glass or acrylic for display surfaces and black metal for structural elements, contributes to a cohesive aesthetic that aligns with the project's concept.

The project also features a thoughtful lighting strategy that enhances the visual drama within the space. Dim ambient lighting creates a subdued atmosphere, contrasting with the focused light directed at the jewelry displays. This combination encourages shoppers to engage in a more leisurely exploration of the merchandise.

Interactive Experience

"Stones" invites customer interaction through its open layout, allowing for fluid movement within the space. This design encourages visitors to navigate the environment at their own pace, akin to moving through an art exhibit. The overall impression is one of intimacy paired with a sense of wonder, facilitating deeper connections to the products on display.

By combining elements of art and commerce, "Stones" sets a precedent for retail architecture that prioritizes experience over simple transaction. This project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can transform conventional retail spaces, providing a model that other designers and brands may consider when working on similar environments.

To explore the project further, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design elements, readers are encouraged to review the comprehensive presentation of "Stones." Understanding the architectural ideas behind this project can provide valuable insights into contemporary design approaches in retail architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy