Jewelry shopping can be an intimidating experience, especially when dealing with high-value items. Picture salespeople, often with supercilious smiles, positioned behind counters filled with precious baubles, sizing up customers. A sense of ease and welcome is a rare find in such scenarios. However, Barbara Rourke and Jason St. John, co-founders of the Los Angeles-based studio Bells + Whistles, brought a refreshing change to Marrow Fine’s third iteration in Chicago. This collaboration with owner Jillian Sassone has been ongoing for four years, starting with the creation of the first shop in San Diego, followed by Newport Beach, and a renovation of the original.
A Unique Collaboration Over Four Years
The collaboration between Bells + Whistles and Marrow Fine dates back four years. The team, recommended by a landlord, created the first shop in San Diego, followed by Newport Beach, and returned to the original for a renovation. Each store is unique and dramatic, reflecting Bells + Whistles’ expertise in restaurant design. The studio, known for projects like San Diego’s theatrical Animae, has brought its creativity to Marrow Fine’s spaces. The overarching theme is experiential, aligning with Marrow’s focus on storytelling and creating a unique feeling for clients wearing their specially crafted pieces.
Crafting Chicago’s Experiential Space
In Chicago, the goal was to create a classic design while pushing boundaries. The designers transformed a former men’s clothing shop owned by Drake into a dusky, terra-cotta-toned space with mottled Venetian plaster and terrazzo flooring. The design features deep curved alcoves around a chunky column, incorporating shaped forms like orbs, ovals, niches, and tambours. The inspiration draws from Chicago’s architectural legacy, with friezes and elements adorning buildings high above the ground.
Architectural Inspiration and Shaped Forms
The design of the Chicago store is influenced by Chicago’s architectural prominence, incorporating elements reminiscent of friezes and architectural details found in the city’s iconic buildings. Shapes such as orbs, ovals, niches, and tambours fill the 1,115-square-foot space, creating an atmosphere more akin to a luxurious hotel lobby than a traditional retail setting.
Evolving the Retail Experience
In their pursuit of redefining the jewelry shopping experience, Bells + Whistles focused on creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a luxe hotel lobby rather than a conventional retail setting. The strategic placement of seating vignettes throughout the open 1,115-square-foot interior invites clientele to not only browse but also engage in a more leisurely and personalized shopping experience.
Curves, Mirrors, and Seating Vignettes
The central column, now mirrored, stands as the nexus of two new curves, one furnished with a plush velvet chair from Sun at Six, a marble table, and a vintage Italian chandelier. The deliberate use of shapes such as orbs, ovals, and niches provides an aesthetic that transcends the traditional, making the interior a visual feast for patrons.
Embracing Chicago’s Architectural Heritage
Inspired by Chicago’s architectural richness, Bells + Whistles incorporated elements that pay homage to the city’s renowned buildings. Friezes and intricate architectural details, often found high above ground level, served as the foundation for the design. Therefore, creating a space that not only houses jewelry but also tells a visual story of Chicago’s architectural grandeur.
A Haven for Reflection and Privacy
For those seeking a more intimate experience, the rear of the store features a secluded salon. Here, amidst carefully curated designs and a thoughtfully designed ambiance, clients can explore and contemplate their selections in a private setting. Additionally, This dedication to privacy aligns with Marrow Fine’s commitment to providing a personalized and tailored jewelry purchasing experience.
Movement and Organic Dynamics
Marrow Fine’s emphasis on movement becomes evident throughout the store, transforming what is often perceived as a sterile and static retail environment into an embracing and organic one. The intentional placement of seating options and the incorporation of dynamic design elements add fluidity to the space. Therefore, encouraging clients to feel not only comfortable but also connected to the stories behind each piece of jewelry.
Beyond the Jewel Box: Sassone’s Personal Touch
Jillian Sassone, Marrow Fine’s owner, extends her innovative approach beyond the three jewelry stores. Adding a personal touch, her home in Rancho Mirage, California, serves as an extension of Marrow Fine’s ethos. Moreover, This holistic integration of personal spaces and retail establishments exemplifies the brand’s commitment to providing a cohesive and unique experience for its clientele.
In conclusion, Bells + Whistles, in collaboration with Marrow Fine, has successfully transcended the conventional boundaries of jewelry retail. Their fusion of classic design, architectural inspiration, and a commitment to experiential storytelling has transformed each Marrow Fine store into a captivating space where clients not only find exquisite jewelry but also immerse themselves in a dynamic and personalized journey.
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