SUNGLASS ISLAND

DESIGN CONCEPT

The design of Sunglass Island is conceived as a bright gallery for eyewear, where each brand becomes a curated exhibit within a continuous, fluid space. The concept balances an almost clinical precision in product display with a warm, lifestyle-oriented graphic backdrop, connecting technical performance with aspirational imagery. The environment is intentionally neutral and monochromatic so that color, reflection, and diversity of frames provide the visual richness.

The store identity relies on a strong perimeter frame: dark-edged, rounded modules that encase luminous walls of sunglasses. These “islands” of light create an immediate focal attraction from the corridor of a mall, while the center of the store is occupied by lower-height display blocks that maintain visual transparency and encourage free circulation.

SPACE PLANNING AND CIRCULATION

The layout is organized along a clear axial route that guides visitors from the entrance towards the large illuminated lifestyle image at the rear, used as a visual anchor. Around this axis, display modules are arranged in a loose grid, allowing multidirectional movement and easy cross-navigation between brands and product categories.

Perimeter walls are dedicated to high-density display, maximizing vertical surface with linear shelving and integrated backlighting. Freestanding central units provide moments of pause and closer interaction with selected products and premium labels. The cash counter is located near the entrance, acting as a threshold element and control point, yet kept visually light so as not to obstruct the transparency of the interior.

MATERIALS AND COLOR PALETTE

The material palette is deliberately restrained: polished dark laminates for frames and edging, matte white display fields, clear and etched glass, and a continuous light-toned floor. This neutral base serves to reflect and diffuse light, allowing the metallic finishes and lens colors of the sunglasses to stand out.

Contrasting black trims define each module, creating a graphic rhythm and subtly evoking the outline of eyewear frames. Glass partitions incorporate decorative etching, adding texture and a degree of privacy without compromising transparency. The floor combines smooth concrete or microcement with inset paths, subtly guiding circulation while resisting heavy foot traffic typical of retail environments.

LIGHTING STRATEGY

Lighting is a critical component of the project and is treated as both functional infrastructure and branding tool. Backlit shelves provide uniform, shadow-free illumination to the eyewear, ensuring accurate perception of lens color and frame details. This luminous backdrop also visually expands the space, making the store feel larger and more open.

Adjustable ceiling spotlights highlight central display islands and vertical brand panels, creating layers of accent lighting. Warm-neutral color temperatures are selected to flatter skin tones during fittings while keeping the merchandise crisp. The large luminous graphic walls act as oversized light boxes, blending visual communication with ambient glow.

BRAND ARCHITECTURE AND GRAPHICS

The interior architecture is designed as a flexible matrix for multiple international brands. Each brand is assigned dedicated zones with clear signage but contained within a unified display language, avoiding visual fragmentation. Logos are integrated into the fascia of the modules and into the central islands, ensuring easy orientation and intuitive product segmentation between sport, luxury, and lifestyle categories.

Large-scale photographic graphics at key focal points reinforce the aspirational and outdoor narrative associated with sunglasses, contrasting the highly controlled interior with images of open landscapes and natural light. This duality strengthens the emotional connection between product and user experience.

SUSTAINABILITY AND OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY

Sustainability is addressed primarily through lighting efficiency, material durability, and modular design. LED technology is specified throughout for backlighting and spotlights, reducing energy consumption and maintenance while providing stable, low-heat illumination that protects the merchandise.

The modular display system allows reconfiguration for new collections and brand rotations without the need for major construction, extending the life cycle of the fit-out. Durable finishes such as laminates, glass, and polished concrete minimize replacement and cleaning requirements, contributing to lower long-term environmental impact. Where possible, components are designed for disassembly, enabling reuse across multiple locations within the brand’s 21-store network in Mexico and the USA.