8:54 AM
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Lumière du Soleil
By: Simona Ghita & Vivian Nguyen
Light of the sun, is what came to mind when we stepped in the 8,100 square foot waterfront designer boutique, A’maree’s, in Newport Beach, California. Nestled along the Pacific Coast, the boutique is a modernist building designed in 1961 by architects Thornton Ladd and John Kelsey. The space was initially designed for various restaurants, but had been vacant for thirteen years before A’maree’s moved into the building in 2010. The company has been family owned for over thirty-five years and is currently operated by sisters Dawn Klohs, Apryl Schaefer, and Denise Schaefer, who we had the pleasure of meeting. A’maree’s features a mix of new and renowned designer labels such as Lanvin, Céline, and Balenciaga.
Upon entry we stepped on polished poured concrete and were pleasantly surprised by handcrafted Shinola bicycles and ornate brass chandeliers hanging from the 18.5' ceiling. A’maree’s promotes handcrafted exclusive products, which is quite evident in their design choices.
We were immediately drawn to the juxtaposition of an ethnic sculpture in the modern space. Upon close examination, the arched posture of the sculpture reiterates the curves of the structure and patterns carried out storewide—a subtle way to create harmony. We particularly observed the goat feet facing forward that reminisce with the furniture style of ancient Egypt. Injured warrior or relaxed faun absorbing the sun? Either way, the piece is a conversation starter.
The three-sided windows of the structure allow copious sunlight to pour into the space. We admired how the sunlight casts curved shadows on this glass and metal jewelry stand replicating the arched windows and ceilings. The ceramic metal halide lighting fixtures complements the modern structure. Gazing up, tall round arches and narrow columns support shallow domes, an architectural element inspired by the Gothic Cathedrals in the 12th Century.
In this corner, rough against smooth textures create balance and bring a welcoming environment for clients to convene and chat. The giant bowl in the center is thinly sculpted in wood and polished with sand paper. The finish, along with furs, rugged coverings and wooden benches, give the space a rustic feeling while soft curves of each piece add grace. Overall, the atmosphere combines casual elegance with a sophisticated twist.
A’maree’s delivers impeccable attention to detail that makes it a truly unique experience. Each corner of the boutique tells a story. We have selected our favorite corners of the store, now we urge you to explore the space and share with us your favorites.
References:
Photographs by Vivian Nguyen
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11 comments:
Excellent. Hearing about it before wasn't quite enough. Having read this, now I actually want to see this place. Cheers.
I would love to spend a lazy Saturday morning browsing through A’maree’s. Having never been there, the description is enough to draw you in. The beautiful curves of the white walls create a relaxing feeling allowing you to focus in on the retail products. With such a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere, who wouldn’t want to buy something? The white on white artwork of the shoe display is so subtle but because of that it creates intrigue in the difference in texture.
I agree that the shoe display is clever and inviting. The shoes standing in line are waiting for be bought. Good usage of natural light makes space big and airy.
This place is so clean look and opened space! especially that arched ceiling and windows are very welcoming with comfortable environment for people. I would go into this room if I pass by this place! I love this arched structure with simple white color wall a lot!
In some design,, they came from the stuffs that we use everyday, but they made it special for the whole building!
I like how they arrange stuff into the space, the sculpture is also nice when they plan to let the sun shines into it.
I would love to walk through this place. With such unique pieces and choice of placement, it almost makes it seem like a museum. I love the white, makes it very clean.
I've driven by this location for several years and have always wanted to go in...and I finally did this past summer. They architecture is quite grand with its white walls, high vaulted ceilings, and large windows with view to the harbor. This part boutique, part gallery (once restaurant) space is very large, but they do a great job filling every part of it with merchandise, including art installations hanging from the ceiling. I specially like walking up to the windows and being able to see straight down to the water from the glass panels on the floor.
This space is amazing! It is so unique. The bicycle chandelier gives the space so much character. Love it!
The store is very different than fancy stores we find at South Coast Plaza, but something about this place feels very inviting and friendly. Amazing sculptures. The Bicycle chandelier really caught me off guard, very different but..i like it.
I absolutely LOVE the long arched hallway! That paired with the stunning jewelry displays with the cast shadows is a design marvel! I want to visit this space in person!
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