Benaki Museum Shop at Navarino Agora is an inviting destination, offering unique cultural and shopping experiences to all guests and homeowners of Costanavarino, as well as locals and visitors of Messinia. Designed by Studiolav in collaboration with Kostantia Manthou, architect, and Creative Designer for the Benaki Museum Shop, the subtle architectural features of the space blend with materials that celebrate Greece’s rich tradition in craftsmanship.
Chestnut wood washed in a terracotta shade, reflective surfaces, and brushed metal are layered to create a radiant shell that emphasizes, without rivaling, the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape and the fascinating story behind each object on a journey through time, art, and crafts.
Nestled within the shaded arched galleria, the petite and bright space has been visually and materially divided into two distinct parts.
Upon entering from the left-hand side, visitors are welcomed by soft tone-on-tone elements in a warm terracotta hue. The curved wood panel wraps around the walls, creating an intriguing backdrop for the display.
The soft volume of the counter gracefully floats over the floor, while the imposing marble countertop adds an air of elegance and refinement.
Moving further into the shop, minimal curated displays bring focus to the collection, evoking a gallery aesthetic in the space. Linear brushed metal shelves set against the hand-made combed textural walls engage in a subtle dialogue between light and shadow, lending depth to the exhibits.
The mirror-clad, look-down displays neatly host jewelry and other precious objects. Sitting in the middle of the space, they seemingly disappear into the structured terrazzo floor, creating captivating reflections that add to the allure of the setting.
Facts & Credits
Project title: Benaki Shop at Navarino Agora
Typology: Commercial
Location: Navarino, Messinia
Architecture-Interior Design: Studiolav and Kostantia Manthou Project Management Detale
Photography: Manos Chatzikonstantis
Text: provided by the architects
You can also read about Studio Lav’s work here
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