Loja Maria, Brasília by ME Arquitetura

Photographer: Madu Jardim Fotografia

The Maria store project was developed to create a sensory experience for everyone who visits. It follows the trend of curves and organic shapes, but with timeless materials. It is intrinsically connected and reflective of the identity developed for the brand, seeking to bring the branding to life. The palette is neutral, light and also warm, welcoming and inviting. The beige microcement on the floor, wall and ceiling creates a monolithic penumbra contrasting with the levigated green Guatemala marble.

It is bold and simultaneously timeless, allowing the curatorship to be valued and highlighted. It's functional minimalism – you couldn't take anything away without it being needed, but there's no need to add as it would escape the essence. We reference the wabi sabi style, valuing the imperfect and highlighting the beauty of what is handmade, creating a sinuous language.

We seek to create an environment that reflects the woman that Maria has as a client. We brought many references with natural materials and many textures on the walls and floors. We also look for references with curves and organic shapes, a trend that is on the rise. Another element we wanted to bring in were wall niches, as well as a touch of feminine sensibility. We also brought references of pieces and sculptural elements, always seeking to value everything that is handcrafted.

The Brasilia of Lúcio Costa and Niemeyer is the symbiosis of sinuous curves and rigid and orthogonal lines. We brought organic shapes, inspired by Niemeyer's projects and Burle Marx's gardens, but always with a guideline of functionality and division by use. We have the café space, but also the dressing rooms, the accessories niches and the clothes racks, all talking to each other and connected by organic shapes.

Architecture inherently shapes our behavior. The sinuous shapes invite contemplation, help the customer to have a fluid flow when visiting the store, without feeling pressured and being able to appreciate the incredible curation.

Design Team:

Lead Architect: Maria Eduarda Oliveira
Interior Architecture Design Collaboration: Alice Nobre, Laura Dourado, Ane Valadão, Luiza Castelo Branco

Photographer: Madu Jardim Fotografia