Inspired by the sari, hastened by the pandemic:
The pandemic forced us to confront many questions that strike at the heart of how we live, how we consume and how we buy. What would retail in the post-pandemic world look like? Is retail as we know it dead? Would it be digital? What is the architecture of a digital space?
Theatre X was born as a response to these questions. The project was inspired by two seemingly unconnected yet powerful ideas – the fluidity of a traditional Indian Sari and the versatility of a website. A tribute to the old and the new. Theatre X imagines a space that celebrates collaboration, openness and community. The space was planned to allow multiple programmes - an experience centre including a runway for fashion shows, a pop-up space for guest collaborators and an interactive space to host workshops.
The project showcases 2 aspects of the space – the ‘Blank Canvas’ is composed of a neutral colour palette, a sophisticated 3D lighting system and an elaborate set of jigs, fixtures and rigs that enable multiple spatial configurations. ‘Theatre X in Action’ imagines a takeover by a guest artist and demonstrates the versatility of the base design by creating an immersive and experiential space. The visitor is invited to undertake a journey – ‘From Dawn to Dusk’, following the guest designer’s collection progressing from day-wear to evening wear.
At its core, Theatre X treads a balance between the space’s digital and physical (tactile) elements by creating a strong and clear dialogue between the two; allowing it to offer itself as a blank canvas, nimbly taking on the identity of the voice and the programme it represents. The space in essence, mimics the fluidity of a Sari, acting like an architectural, ever-changing display, with a vivid and mesmeric user experience.