About
Aesop
Malababa
Gisela
Hoff
Ambrosia
MAX&Co.
Hiscox
Monte Esquinza
Maksu
Exhibition
Kublin x Balenciaga
Viva la Diferencia
Libros Mutantes
Product
Marset
Tortuga
Bosa
Ninamur
Muro
Rugine
Coordonné
La Clinica Design
Zara Join Life
Academic & Research
Herbarium of Interiors
Ibiza Rosso Corsa
Talisman
Festibal
Another Terra
Rituals of Passage
Mould Operandi
2026
The rhythm of the interior is defined by its spatial distribution. Rather than revealing itself all at once, the store unfolds gradually, encouraging visitors to move through distinct zones that remain partially hidden upon entry. This sense of discovery is central to the design, transforming the act of shopping into a layered journey through the space. At the centre of this experience is the statement staircase leading to the second floor. Conceived as a sculptural centrepiece, it anchors the interior both visually and spatially. The space recalls the intimacy of certain spiritual and contemplative interiors found in Istanbul during the research field trip by Ciszak Dalmas, subtly echoing the meditative calm associated with Turkish cultural traditions, a quiet reference to the brand’s origins.
Lighting plays a key role in shaping the atmosphere. The space features Ambrosia, a pendant light fixture designed by Ciszak Dalmas together with Joan Gaspar and manufactured by Marset in Barcelona. In its vertical configuration, three light tubes are arranged at varying heights to form a sculptural composition.
Materiality defines the interior from the moment of entry. At street level, the walls are finished in limewash paint. Racks and mirrors are made from solid black iron with a hammered finish. The timber flooring is engineered oak in a darker medium tone, chosen to match the stain of the restored ceiling. The staircase emerges as a pivotal architectural gesture. Finished in pistachio stucco, it mirrors the treatment of the first floor walls. Beyond circulation, it creates a rhythmic transition from the open ground floor to the more private upper level, reinforcing the store’s sense of discovery.
During construction, the original roof was uncovered and carefully reintroduced into the project. This restored layer brings a renewed sense of temporality, creating a quiet dialogue between past and present. The bespoke furniture pieces are produced by a local carpentry workshop in solid oak and finished with ALPI California Burl surface. The space is completed with unique pieces sourced from selected London based dealers, including The Peanut Vendor, Ancien et Jolie and Studio 125, creating a layered mix of historical character and thoughtfully curated design.
Maksu Chelsea reflects a thoughtful approach to contemporary retail design, where spatial rhythm, the retooling of existing architectonic elements and crafted details come together to support a slower, more engaging experience.
Designers: Ciszak Dalmas
Location: 96 King’s Rd, London SW3 4TZ, United Kingdom
Floor Area: 150 m2
Completion: 3/2026
Photo: Nic Ford
2024
The space was created to showcase handmade garments alongside selected artworks and vintage furniture, in collaboration with local galleries and antique dealers. A Mediterranean material palette of limewash finishes, small-format ceramic tiles, natural clay, and fabric-lined surfaces reinforces the brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and simplicity. These materials shape a calm, tactile environment that reflects the spirit of Maksu's collections.
The spatial layout follows a narrative structure. Visitors first encounter a more public entrance space, where a tunnel finished in hand-applied clay mortar divides the interior and marks the transition into a more intimate and private retail zone. On the top floor, the Maksu Café completes the journey, where speciality coffee and Turkish specialties are served in reference to the brand’s origins.
Throughout the store, works by established and emerging female artists, including Torie Begg’s Apparently Black series (1997), foster an ongoing dialogue with the space. Furniture by Thonet and other reused pieces add a sense of timelessness and authenticity, enhancing the store’s atmosphere as both refined and rooted in tradition.
More than a store, Maksu in Mayfair embodies a multidisciplinary vision, where every material and detail contributes to a narrative of creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural expression.
This is the first store of two in London, the second one has already opened in King’s Road in early 2026.
Architects: Ciszak Dalmas / Matteo Ferrari
Location: 23 Bruton St, London, United Kingdom
Floor Area: 300 m2
Completion: 4/2024
Photo: Salva López