Lexus Showroom |
Located along the main thoroughfare running a beeline, otherwise prominently recognised as the 'automobile strip', in the city of Ipoh; stands the singularly unorthodox Lexus car emporium.
|
At first glance, the sizable structure boasts design intellect and simplicity to the naked eye. What seems to be an environmentally immersive equilateral functions as a Showroom & Sales Centre housing cars manufactured by Lexus. Distinct in its layout contrary to its neighbouring competitors, the Lexus Showroom displays its product in a way that satisfies the balance between showmanship and integrity.
The approach in this particular design narrative streams along the Japanese philosophy adopted by Lexus; 'omotenashi' that explains the importance of expressing the spirit of hospitality, in this instance, in the driving experience.
Acting as the vanguard of the building stands a mono-pitched roof clad of intricate hardwood timber; built in a forward-leaning manner as a reference to the bowing gesture not only commonly used, but also a valued trait in the Japanese tradition that signifies modesty and humility. It artistically acts as a branded canvas masking its interior from the exterior, teasing only a slight silhouette of its automobiles.
Upon entry, one may notice the change in material of the underside of the timber screen. What seems to be delicate on the surface appears to be mechanically structured with the use of steel members on the inside. It stands as a metaphor relating to the automobiles; sleek and appealing in its display, yet robust and durable what's beneath the surface. During midday, light rays from the sun would dance through the roof of the screen, choreographing rhythmic tapestries on the floor of the foyer. The semi-enclosed foyer conveys a sense of transition, serving as a connection between the external and the internal.
Beyond the light-skimmed foyer is a vast gallery square, boasting spatial comfort similar to its preceded spaces. Key to the design of the interior, the architects focused product placing reliant to spatial awareness; in a sense that customers shall never feel any limitations in motion, staying true to the 'omotenashi' philosophy.
Raw concrete walls form different spaces within the interior. The pure undisturbed matte surfaces serves as a contrast and an ideal canvas in showcasing the glossy Lexus automobiles.
A sense of relation between the exterior and the interior can be seen applied to the design of the gallery. As one may notice the roof is ornamented with a pattern of what seems as if it was extended from the timber screen in the foyer. Tucked away at the side is an oval-shaped wall forming a subspace of meeting rooms; also clad in timber imitating the facade of the building.
