Located adjacent to a commuter train station in the Chicago suburb of Park Ridge, Illinois, this optical retail store and optometry office explores how eyewear can define spaces and screen others. We looked to create a modern space where the retail display was integral to the layout and could form the boundaries of spaces.
The main element of the design is the natural Ash shelves which line the fitting area to display retail eyewear. They are mounted directly on one wall before turning to form a privacy screen separating the retail area from the optical testing room, giving this space a view of the main area and the exterior windows. Each custom shelf is fronted by a felt-wrapped block to protect and feature the frames on display.
The pendant light over the reception desk is a custom piece made up of curving strips of recycled steel suggesting old-fashioned glasses frames—a whimsical complement to the racks of frames on display across the room.
The wood shelving element maintains its materiality but becomes solid to form the separation between the circulation corridor and the exam rooms and offices to the rear of the space. Weathered beams removed during demolition are repurposed as a light cove lining the ceiling of the rear corridor. The overall effect: glowing wood surfaces that come guilt-free.
