Gold accents that give character: 3 commercial projects

In this editorial, we're examining how 3 commercial projects from leading designers use gold motifs to provide depth and a like-no-other effect to the spaces they create. We are reviewing work from Kengo Kuma, Neri and Hu, and Andy Martin Architecture.

Camper Store

We start by looking at Camper Store in Milan by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma. The store's interior is covered in a grid of pale ply that stretches from floor to ceiling that divides the vertical surfaces into a series of cubby-holes for displaying shoes.

On the brownstone floor, pebble-shaped couches are upholstered in a hemp fabric with a neutral colour. The acidified limestone used to make the flagstones shows traces of weathering, which gives the surface texture and colour variety.

The designers mainly used only two materials: plywood for the walls and natural stone for the floors. Even though these materials are plain, their textures add richness to the space. This design reflects Camper’s style of mixing simple looks with detailed features, creating an attractive and elegant store interior.

Discover products that are relevant to this story!

Sulwhasoo Flagship Store

Next, we look at the Sulwhasoo Flagship store designed by Chinese studio Neri and Hu for an Asian skincare brand. The store is situated in the South Korean capital's Gangnam district and is the second project that uses gold accents to enhance the space.

A lattice of brass rods creates see-through surfaces throughout the interior. The inside has wide timber floor boards that give it a warm, natural feel. These cover the sides of plinths with solid stone tops which are used to exhibit the company's products.

Explore products that bring this story to life!

By varying the materials utilised, different moods are created throughout the multiple stories. The treatment rooms at the underground spa include grey stone flooring, dark brick walls, and hardwood floors, which give the space a pleasant, private feel. As visitors rise through the building, the palette gradually becomes lighter.

Fucina

Finally, we explore Fucina in London's Marylebone by Andy Martin Architecture under this product combination focus. The brick ceiling of this restaurant has protrusions that resemble humps and refer to the dome-shaped inside of pizza ovens.

A coloured glass and steel screen is installed on the building's façade, while the interior is bricked and furnished with custom furniture, lighting, and ironmongery.

Raw materials such as brick, marble, timber and burnt steel cover the restaurant giving the restaurant a contemporary Italian aesthetic.

A grey marble countertop is used to exhibit fresh food, flowers, and crockery surrounding an L-shaped bar. Dining tables have wooden branch-like legs, while the seats and backs of chairs are made of woven fabric.

Click to view detailed product information!

Parts of colourful terrazzo, where marble shards have been embedded into a cement board, contrast with the areas of pale floors. A chef's table, the restrooms, and an area with exposed concrete ceiling and an open-fire cooking pit downstairs offer a darker and moodier design.

Visit Kengo Kuma’s project Camper Store

Visit Neri and Hu’s project Sulwhasoo Flagship Store

Visit Andy Martin Architecture’s project Fucina