Patchi Gourmandines - lautrefabrique architects

The historic souks of Beirut, located in the renovated area of Solidere, in the city center were destroyed by civil war in Lebanon. They were completely rebuilt by the Spanish architect Rafael Moneo and reopened in 2009. It is in this new commercial and tourist complex that the Lebanese chocolate maker Patchi has opened a new shop.

On this occasion Patchi has decided to break with the codes that have contributed to his reputation throughout the Middle East, with “chocolate jewels” presented on a plexiglass cone. No display stands, but only the boxes of the extensive “Gourmandine” range.

The shop is located at the corner of two indoor streets, facing a very busy square. The site covers only a small area – just over 25m2 – but has a comfortable height – 7m – and the creation of a mezzanine was strongly suggested by the client. However the installation of a staircase and an elevator at the rear of the shop proved to take up too much space. The architect then suggested enhancing the double-height by a scenic device favoring its expression.

The trapezoidal shape of the plan highlights the perspective and the perception of the depth of the shop transforming this cramped area into a generous space opening onto the outside. The linear display of products is located in hollows in the walls that hug the contours of the trapezoid. Boxes and chocolate bars are displayed on cantilevered shelves that run along the whole length of the wall and whose spacing varies to accommodate all sizes of products. Linear LED’s installed under each shelf highlight the product facings.

The lower walls are smooth, concealing stock cupboards At the top, the cantilevered shelves look like streaks on the full height. They incorporate a system of indirect lighting that allows the multiple perforations in the ceiling to be preserved.

The counter, with a Macassar ebony veneer, houses the till and the sound equipment and enables new products from the “Gourmandine” range to be presented.

To the rear, a screen, which repeats the shapes and materials of the counter serves as storage for bags hanging from hooks made from brushed stainless steel.