Carol Christian Poell's Concept store and gallery in Moscow unveils its 2nd floor: a realm of avant-garde fashion and art

Daring, imaginative, and evocative — these are the hallmarks of the Carol Christian Poell monobrand boutique in Moscow, marking his first venture outside Munich. The boutique's success, initially designed by architect Ariana Ahmad in 2021, prompted the addition of a second level. Alexander Moiseenkov, the boutique's founder, entrusted Ahmad with the extension of this groundbreaking endeavor.

Ariana emphasizes the importance of aligning with the brand's ethos. Carol Christian Poell, celebrated for his innovative leatherwork and unique treatments, stands out as a mysterious figure in the fashion industry. His limited-edition pieces, each with its own passport and produced in quantities ranging from 2 to 40, are exclusively available by appointment. The brand's core is its unadulterated beauty and the independence of its designs, necessitating an interior that facilitates focused appreciation. Ahmad's primary challenge was to refine the space to serve as an unobtrusive canvas that accentuates the collections, the designer's intention, and artistic expression.

The collaboration with Carol Christian Poell's team was integral, with every aspect of the design communicated to Milan in print. Ahmad reflects on the project as a 'living' artwork, eschewing artificial elements.

The second story spans 86 m² and is distinguished by its spacious windows, a lavatory, seamless flooring, visible beams and utilities, concrete finishes, walls either glazed or left in their natural state, glass blocks repurposed from a derelict factory, and stark white tiling. This minimalist, industrial setting is the perfect foil for Poell's cutting-edge designs. The decor is understated, featuring Chairs 101 Copenhagen and a Friends&Founders table by GK concept. A notable centerpiece, a cast-iron bathtub bisected and reimagined by Ahmad and Moiseenkov, punctuates the space.

In a symbolic gesture, Moiseenkov was gifted a small basin by the designer, now installed in the main hall.

Ariana concludes that the interior, though simple, aptly frames Carol Christian Poell's work, creating an ambiance that complements without overshadowing the designs.

About architect Ariana Ahmad:
Ariana Ahmad's Architectural Bureau, providing a full range of services from creating plans and visualizations to managing construction and selecting furniture and decor, has a global presence with projects in Great Britain, Israel, and America. The bureau's expertise ranges from private interiors to public projects, including notable works like the conceptual store and gallery of Carol Christian Poell. Since 2018, Ariana has been recognized as one of the best architects by AD magazine.

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Photo credit Varvara Toplennikova
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Style by Natalia Onufreichuk, Alena Cherepanova
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