In my search of new projects to write about today, I came across this eccentric little Store in Venice Beach, California and was instantly hooked with the simplicity and humble dexterity of it. Miansaiis a familiar, Miami-based, general accessory brand, that offers unique, everlasting and fine pieces of jewellery, leather bags, stationery and even home collections. Their quality products are made with valuable metals, Italian leathers and marine grade ropes, to suit everyone’s sense of style.
Michael Andrew Saiger (Mi-An-Sai), aka Founder and Creative Director of Miansai, first opened his store in New York’s Soho which of course became a triumph, allowing him to expand his success with a secondary retail space in Los Angeles.
The design behind the store is simply exceptional. Designer Peter Buley from Brooklyn studio Analog Modern, worked closely with Michael on the project to create an aesthetically pleasing experience with chic and sophisticated components that draw you in and allow you to explore the displayed collections. The goal for the design team was to truly capture the essence of the brand’s identity of elegance and minimal form, and translate it within the store’s configuration.
Shaping the space and adding character to the long and narrow room are the walnut timber installations that have been introduced to counteract the white-washed, brick walls and black Steel columns and beams that define the elongated room. The white walls and Italian porcelain tiled floor, become an ideal backdrop for the walnut finished furniture that match the wooden ceiling beams running across the length of the room. It’s simply a blank canvas that just makes the wooden tones stand out and balance the colour scheme instead of overpowering the space and in result taking away from what’s really important; the accessories.
The façade of the store reflects the interior framework with its ceiling high glazing panels, outlined in the same steel frame that’s seen inside, allowing natural light to brighten up the store. Lighting fixtures of matte black by Jo Hammerborg and Kreon, further emphasise the black steel features throughout the room and add a warmer glow, whilst the hanging chandelier by Brendan Ravenhill Studio, provide elegance to match the store’s luxurious accessories.
Miansai’s store also has an incorporated tea bar that serves teas, kombucha and fresh pressed juice which can of course be enjoyed in the outdoor seating area that allows customers to shop, indulge and work.
Photos © Design Milkand Analog Modern
