03 Apr 2023
In 2016, the Billie le Kid store, specializing in children's clothing and products, opened its doors on Laurier West Avenue in Montreal. Conceived by two friends, the in-store experience draws inspiration from the opulence and variety of Ali Baba's cave, where the abundance and diversity of merchandise transport us into the enchanting world of childhood. Also Read | Kareena Kapoor Khan’s new home in Bandra with European styled decor & wooden detailing
Thanks to their innovative vision and unwavering commitment to the quality of their products, Billie le Kid quickly became a must-visit destination for families in the neighbourhood. With their remarkable success, the two founders decided to open a second branch in an equally iconic location: the village of Mont-Tremblant, in Quebec's Laurentian region. Also Read: 7 Simple steps to Declutter your Work Space
Mont-Tremblant is renowned for its unique architecture, vibrant facades, and recreational tourism offerings, making it an ideal setting for a store inspired by the concept of a general store. One of the primary challenges of the project was to create a layout design that reflects the identity and atmosphere of the Laurier Avenue store while adapting it to the context of the Mont-Tremblant clientele. Also Read | Shiro Kuramata’s Samba-M shines again with Ambientec at the supersalone in Milan
Throughout the planning process, customers emphasized the importance of product display and the versatility of the storage systems. The store offers a wide range of children's products, such as clothing for ages 0 to 14, books, body care products, figurines, games, and plush toys.
The layout concept is based on integrating a custom-made high piece of furniture that follows the perimeter of the space and incorporates some conceptual elements of a general store. The furniture provides ample storage and display space and blends seamlessly into the space with its round-shaped compartments. The furniture is designed with a regular and thoughtful rhythm to incorporate access to secondary spaces, including the back store, the mezzanine, and the fitting room. Also Read | Arabic Resin art decor launches by Artist Madhavi Adalja
In the central area, tables and supports for clothing are arranged in aisles to promote fluid circulation and allow for some flexibility in the layout, which must adapt to seasonal needs. A lengthy checkout counter serves as a display and packaging surface during purchases. Its arrangement prioritizes customer reception and enables quick access to the storage area located behind the custom-made display.
To cultivate an inviting and authentic ambience, the designers incorporated a selection of antique pieces, such as accent chairs, refectory tables, and various decorative accessories. All the materials chosen for the store are sober to evolve. This palette allows for the creation of a simple space that highlights the items and evokes the world of childhood. Also Read | 4 ways to style your interior spaces with copper
The storefront is designed like a theatre to showcase the carefully curated novelties and collections by the owners and their teams. These are accentuated by existing arches and doors that lend character to the facade. To extend the concept outside the store, the front is repainted and enhanced with a colour palette that is part of the Mont-Tremblant village's charter. Finally, custom-made awnings featuring the brand's logo recall the idea of a general store and serve to identify the store from the main avenue.
In summary, the interior design of the Billie le Kid store in Tremblant is an ambitious project for the founders, who seek to replicate the success of their first location in the city, while incorporating the specificities of this new environment. Also Read: Easy Guide To Choose A Color Palette For Your Space
Thanks to the collaboration with the design team, the space is laid out in a way that creates a unique ambience that showcases the diversity of the products offered. Materiality, the use of antique pieces, and the clever design of custom-made furniture have created an identity unique to this branch. With this new store, Billie le Kid has been able to adapt to a new market, while remaining true to its creative vision and commitment to its clientele, all while incorporating various architectural elements and design concepts. Also Read | 4 ways to style your interior spaces with copper
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