MANOLO
BLAHNIK
+
BATA SHOE
MUSEUM

The Art of Shoes

CASE STUDY № 10

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PROJECT BRIEF

Manolo Blahnik is among the world's leading shoe designers, and the Bata Shoe Museum was honoured to host the last leg of Blahnik's retrospective exhibit tour. In its capacity as hosting museum of this travelling exhibition, the Bata Shoe Museum sought out Arc & Co. Design Collective to design the exhibit space for this one-of-a-kind Manolo Blahnik exhibition.

It involved developing a concept for an exhibit space that would showcase the vast collection of Blahnik's designs with a blend of old world architecture and modernity that propelled Blahnik to the top of the fashion market. Blahnik's retrospective exhibit included over 200 shoe artifacts and sketches that are divided into five sections to demonstrate his process and inspiration.

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PBX SCORE™ (prior to project start):

FOCUSED IDENTITY: 100%

OBSERVABLE TOUCHPOINTS: 60%

USER ENGAGEMENT: 50%

REALIZED VALUE: 100%

DESIGN SOLUTION

Arc & Co. Design Collective created an interior space in an old European style influenced by post-neoclassical architecture. Taking advantage of the freedom to combine modern elements with those found in post-neoclassical design, an elevated expression was developed that accurately conveyed Blahnik's brand, as well as his footwear designs.

In the space, traditional forms were juxtaposed with modern materials, creating a balance of design and functionality. It conveyed high-end elegance without being kitsch by contrasting matte and high-gloss finishes, ornate and geometric shapes, and old-world hues with modern black. In addition to the spatial planning, each section seamlessly blended without overwhelming the viewer. The exhibit was well received by both media and audiences, especially Blahnik, who attended the exhibition opening.