Silver Winner of the Architecture & Design Collection Awards 2022

Timelounge

Design
Retail Interior Design Built
Professional Category

Architect / Designer:

Armin Ebner/ Hugo Feisthamel

Studio:

BEHF Architects

Copyright:

Hertha Hurnaus, Markus Kaiser

Country:

Austria

Timelounge, a specialised luxury watch store in the heart of Vienna on Naglergasse Street, has reopened after a thorough renovation. The reason for the renovation of the existing premises was the possibility to more than double the space and exhibition capacity and to give it a modern design. At just over 100m2, BEHF Architects realises an individual look with high recognition.

Externally, the new Timelounge presents itself with a reorganised and restructured facade, without denying its original DNA. Inside, the main brands Rolex, Patek Philippe and Audemars Piguet have been assigned their own areas.

In a clear differentiation from other goldsmiths, Timelounge does not deal with the usual, internationally standardised design, but finds a clear counterweight. Partly determined by the protection of monuments, the concept of security and based on the existing building structure, BEHF Architects sets the look with maximum contrast:
Deliberately earth materials in grey colour strongly strengthen the existing structure and contrast with the subtlety of watches. Leather, rough lime mortar and terrazzo versus smooth, polished, shiny surfaces of watches. This creates a calming and almost holy mood. The most important design elements are deliberately withdrawn, the light that is used emphasises the room. Leather-covered tables look like altars. Here, the customer can look at the selected watch in peace and quiet and get detailed advice. On the other hand, there are showcases, both indoors and outdoors, which maximally present the exhibited watches, supported by digital surfaces that complement the communication.

A special emphasis is placed on the use of Erwin Wurm’s art. Like a stain on a flawless face, it deliberately diverts attention from the product and, by winking, shows another level of perception.

BEHF Architects

Established in 1995, BEHF Architects is an architectural office based in Vienna that has achieved international acclaim. It is headed by Armin Ebner, Susi Hasenauer and Stephan Ferenczy. With about 120 employees, it is one of Austria’s largest and most efficient architectural offices. BEHF is an experienced team of architects, planners, interior designers and strategic minds, responsible for the overall project stages, from the initial strategy and start of the design through all planning phases to the completion. BEHF Architects ensures the projects are completed timely and within budget agreements.

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