A heritage building in the vibrant heart of Kolkata, a city that effortlessly balances the past and the present, provided the perfect location for a multi-brand retail store underpinned by a modern sensibility. BOMBAIM is driven by a definitive vision and the space embodies all that the store stands for—a fitting expression of a contemporary aesthetic rooted in context, culture and history. A renovation project that was completed in October 2017, the store’s design was undertaken by ‘Open to Sky’. The store occupies the ground floor of a colonial bungalow with a facade punctuated by floor-to-ceiling windows that articulate a dialogue between the outdoors with the interiors. Modern and clean-lined yet warm and inviting—that was the brief from which the design of the space flowed out seamlessly, influencing material choices and geometric symmetry.
The starting point to achieving the aesthetic was eliminating all additions made to the shell and distilling it down to its true essence—of pure uncompromising design, with elements that draw in the visitor. The frameless glass fitted into the full-height arched openings are fronted with Parisian-style metal grilles that can be opened, offer the option of solitude or engagement.
Unifying the 1,000-square-foot expanse is the monolithic concrete flooring polished to a high sheen. The largely unadorned walls and the high, beamed ceilings enhance the strong, minimalist aesthetic that is the mainstay of the design. But what sets it apart are the subtle touches of elegance that accentuate the understated subtlety—the starburst pattern on the ceiling embellished with an unexpected brass garuda; the slim brass skirting running along the walls that give the illusion of floating walls when illuminated and the blank white stretches accented with back-illuminated fabric paintings; the concrete expanse that is divided into smaller sections by thin brass strips with handmade scalloped patterns relieving the stark monolithic expanse of concrete. Neutral tones, elegant interiors and cleverly placed accents work harmoniously to serve the overarching purpose it is meant to—offering a perfect backdrop to complement the high-end apparel on display.
For its discerning customers, Bombaim isn’t just about shopping; it's about transforming the act into a unique and unforgettable experience.
For this project, 'Open to Sky' was adjudged the Best Retail Project in the Northern and Eastern Zones and Joint Winner for Best Retail Project (all India) by Institute of Indian Interior Designers – Awards 2017-2018.