As we near the holiday season, it’s the perfect time to spread joy and happiness with our loved ones. The best way to do just that is to visit BC Clark Jewelers, a full-service jeweler that currently operates three stores in Oklahoma City. The Classen Curve shopping center location is home to a fabulous Duo 4 installation, designed and specified by HSE Architects whom we “virtually” sat down with to talk more about the project.
An ornate display of draping wire meshes can be seen on the left side of the space. What was the design inspiration behind this wave-like pattern?
Having been inspired by modern jewelry design, we wanted to create a concept that integrated the soft elegance seen in a lot of necklaces, bracelets, and rings. Our design intent was to capture that essence and reinterpret it into architectural features and custom fabrications. The owners asked that the bridal boutique area have an elegant, intimate, and unique atmosphere.
Contending with a 17’ tall ceiling, we concluded that the height needed to be lowered while providing some level of transparency. The finalized design consists of various weaved metal finishes oriented in sequential, concentric waves. The weaved layers create a spatial divider on one side and continue across the ceiling for a dramatic visual effect.
Using the Duo 4, the indirect lighting adds a stunning atmosphere and layers of shadows that really draw your eye to the design. How crucial was this for this project?
Without the Duo 4, the space above the woven metal would have appeared dull and dark. It dramatically enhanced the color variation between the layers, which ultimately made this design feature’s execution successful.
Tucked neatly behind these woven meshes, the fixture almost looks like it’s floating in the air, with no suspensions. Was this a design consideration?
Getting the appropriate number of foot-candles on the displays was extremely important. However, we also wanted the fixtures to disappear as much as possible and instead highlight the elegant woven mesh. Duo 4’s minimalist design and high lumen output made it the perfect fixture for our design intent.
Why did you decide to go with Squared Recessed Downlights? Did it add to the “Fine Cuts of Jewelry” theme?
Yes, the square downlights also felt more appropriate given the rectilinear geometries of the display cases below. We felt like the layout should be a reflection of the display cases themselves.
