True Thing Design Studio introduces OskayStore, a distinctive retail space nestled within the historic First Bank Warehouse in Yancheng, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Inspired by the local landscape and cultural heritage, the design embodies elements of rugged mountains, serene seas, and urban industrialization, providing a deeply immersive experience rooted in Yancheng Warehouse culture.
Conceptualization
The store’s name, “OSKAY,” pays homage to the playful “pause language” used by children in southern Taiwan during the 1970s and 1980s. Drawing from this concept of hiding, the design incorporates hidden corners and intriguing spatial compositions, inviting visitors to explore and discover within the space.
Preservation and Adaptation
Embracing the warehouse’s six-meter-high ceilings, True Thing Design Studio chose to expose the original beams and columns, celebrating the raw industrial aesthetic. This deliberate decision not only honors the warehouse’s identity but also allows for potential future repurposing and sustainability in the face of evolving business activities.
Seamlessness Between Interior and Exterior
The design preserves the warehouse’s expansive floor-to-ceiling entrance windows, blurring the boundary between interior and exterior spaces. A “hideaway wall” delicately integrates with the surroundings, while a central bare column defines distinct zones within the store, including retail, office, and meeting areas.
Spatial Composition
To create a dynamic and flexible interior, frosted glass and steel panels are utilized as half-height walls, providing a balance between openness and privacy. Large-section segmented calcium silicate boards seamlessly merge with the soaring interior walls, while variable-height platforms offer versatile display options, embodying the studio’s vision for Kaohsiung’s commercial landscape.
Conclusion
OskayStore stands as a testament to True Thing Design Studio’s innovative approach to retail design, blending contemporary elements with traditional heritage. By embracing the rich history and cultural context of Yancheng Warehouse, the space offers a unique and immersive shopping experience, inviting visitors to connect with the essence of Kaohsiung’s urban evolution.
