Rinascente department store in Milan has opened its fifth floor to the public following completion of the first phase of the renovation project. The interior design, developed by David Chipperfield Architects Milan in collaboration with Rinascente, includes a large central area defined by a grey granite ‘carpet' on which a collection of maple wood furnishings are positioned to display multi-brand products. The mono-brand products are placed around the perimeter beyond a glass ‘skirt’.
The most significant architectural element is the 24 white plaster mushroom columns that give a clear and dynamic identity to the space and refer to Rinascente’s role as an umbrella covering the various products on sale.
Work on the second phase will continue throughout the Summer to allow the fifth floor to be fully completed in September.
Image © Alberto Parise