Oska Clothing, QVB

The OSKA woman exudes a contemporary, yet pared back elegance with light draping and menswear inspired silhouettes. The aim was to translate these key aesthetic elements with layers of black, shades of grey and textures of white. A moodiness and restrained drama is created and ultimately reflects the brand aesthetic.

Sydney’s iconic Queen Victoria Building was hand-picked by OSKA Germany for their second NSW store. The brief stipulates a strictly monochrome palette and include the signature crisp white, jet black and specific grey tones. This palette is explored as an extension of the clothing; honest unassuming finishes translate an understated luxe feel.

The entire store is symmetrical to make the most of the 38sqm. The change rooms are located centrally along the side walls and the linen drapery stacks away to maintain and openness to the floor area when not in use.

There is an opportunity to utilise the volume of the site. A hand applied, layered paint finish is used on the walls from eye level upwards. A datum line runs across this elevation to separate the soft grittiness from the clean white backdrop for the clothing.

As the site is heritage listed, the rear windows of the store must not be obstructed by solid walls. In lieu of a store room, there are two large joinery units at a mammoth height of 3 metres. They house all the essentials, including a kitchen sink and extra stock to replenish the store.

The finishes palette is simple, yet rich with texture and an interesting mix of materials; raw steel cladding for drawer fronts, crushed linen fabric for drapery, clean plasterboard contrasts layers of painted grey and white.

There is a balance between refined, crisp details and the beauty of patina and imperfections. The essence of the brand is captured without over embellishment; the store is a backdrop for the clothing, but is far from a bland white box.

This project was nominated in the Retail category of the 2016 Interior Design Excellence Awards (IDEA)

Oska, Germany

Project team: Tiny logo, INK interior architects
Builder: Nicom Interiors