web work Vanke — Jincheng

Vanke /
Adaptive Retail System
Retail Design Spatial Storytelling Design Strategy Cross-Functional Collaboration Material Exploration

Challenge

As part of a cultural placemaking initiative, Vanke commissioned Domani to convert the annex next to the Hudec Exhibition villa into a flexible cultural retail space—designed before any brand partner was confirmed. The Design Director established a concept based on the exhibition’s theme — a dialogue across time — centered on a restrained single material palette and modular fixtures. The design prioritized neutrality with character—ensuring future tenants could imprint their identity while staying within a consistent spatial language. My task was to carry this concept into design development, resolving details, materials, and build strategies that could adapt to evolving merchandising and operational needs.
Approach

The concept’s yellow-toned materiality had not yet been resolved at the conceptual stage. Drawing inspiration from oxidized Q235 steel sheets found in a factory lot, I collaborated with metal finishing suppliers to test and refine weathering steel patinas. Through a series of on-site trials, we arrived at a finish that captured the intended tone and texture while remaining practical for retail-scale application.

To support long-term merchandising flexibility, I proposed a magnet-based fixture system: shelves and surface panels could be easily reconfigured or swapped for campaign elements. This system was designed to work not only for evolving brand narratives but also for daily ease of use by store staff.

I extended this logic into smaller spatial details—developing custom door locks and transforming an exposed HVAC unit into a visual feature. These gestures turned technical necessities into part of the spatial storytelling, aligning with the installation-driven experience of the adjacent exhibition.

Outcome

Although the store was not built due to budget changes, the project strengthened my ability to design for uncertainty—creating frameworks that stay adaptable across brand identities, product categories, and operational demands. The material exploration, user-friendly reconfigurability, and integration of narrative into utility continue to inform how I approach small-format retail: with an emphasis on flexibility, narrative, and usability that can evolve with the brand.
Credits

Client: Vanke Group
Project Site: Sun Ke Villa, Shanghai
Design Studio: Domani Architectural Concepts
Design Director: Ann Yu
Concept Design: Ann Yu
Design Development: Jincheng Zhangliu

More Projects

Get in touch

Instagram

[email protected]