Jitu's Boutique by Interarch Associates

The structure was spanning a whopping 5,000 square feet, and it showed. There was simplicity and class in the material palette, spatial planning, and curation of fabrics. Enveloped in a double-height volume, the space was comfortably air-conditioned and well-lit. While natural light did not play a key role, natural materials certainly did: lime plaster, burnt brick, teak veneer, solid wood, and glass, all finished with a neat white ceiling. The space was exploring the core theme of being a boutique in a simplified yet elegant way, featuring ergonomically designed display platforms, comfortable chairs with refined aesthetics, and tall, wood-cased display areas. All of this was tucked towards the periphery, leaving a relaxing square space in the centre, making the boutique a calming retail experience rather than a harrowing one. What was catching his eye, though, was one corner with a small step up, tall mirrors on the walls, and an intricately traditional stool that was playing a salient character. This was the stage for patrons, where they could stand and imagine how their persona would change with their fabric selections. It was a trial room of sorts with a unique charm, surprising to see such an execution in a minimal setup.

The interiors also were featuring sleek stairs dominated by glass, which were punctuating the space into two hemispheres and leading him up to the home decor section. To his surprise, he was feeling a new sense of space surrounding him. Technically, it was just a mezzanine occupying one-third of the total carpet area, offering a view that was overlooking the rest of the floor. It almost felt like a bird’s eye view. Here, the same design style was being followed, with ample space for manoeuvring. From where the stairs were beginning, he had noticed a solid wood door, which he later learned was leading to two changing rooms, a washroom, and a pantry. Oh! What a respectful way of entertaining patrons in a boutique; shopping here was truly an experience marked by hospitality and consideration.

As he was taking this tour, he was gathering his thoughts and reflecting on what was making this space so warm. It was certainly the colour palette—a soothing mix of earth tones—but also the uncluttered segregation of products that was relaxing him as a patron and giving ample space to the fabrics. The ambient lighting was robust and well-executed, serving its purpose admirably.

Brass was appearing occasionally, sometimes as accent elements, decor objects, or in the mobile racks of shawls and silk sarees. However, more than anything, it was the simplicity, the urge to create something based in humility and harmony, and the translation of these virtues and visions into the design.

He took home a gorgeous saree that day, along with a few lessons in hospitality, humility, and customer retention!