A haute couture studio in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, has undergone a remarkable architectural transformation that serves as a cornerstone in renewing the brand's visual identity. The project, completed in 2024 by estúdio mariane rios under the leadership of architect Mariane Rios, spans 350 square meters and represents a sophisticated blend of contemporary design with natural materials. The renovation created a new environment and facade that enhances the studio's products, attracts new audiences, and establishes more contemporary and sophisticated visual communication.
The facade design centers on symmetrical volumes based on solid forms sculpted from natural stone, creating a striking visual impact. Translucent volumes of the lower display windows are elegantly framed by stone elements, connected through the same material in a dense and flat manner that covers the existing structural columns. This innovative design approach transforms the building into a unique composition of solids and voids that seamlessly aligns with the entrance portal, creating architectural harmony throughout the structure.
A significant change in the building's functionality involved relocating the main access to the side, breaking away from the previous configuration that featured a central entrance limited by four columns. The new entrance features a pivoting door made of metallic muxarabi, strategically positioned within one of the stone volumes. Upon entering through this distinctive doorway, visitors are greeted by an open space filled with natural light created through the interplay of light and shadow from carefully designed pergolas, complemented by landscaping that contrasts beautifully with the wall textures and travertine stone shades.
The entrance hall serves multiple functions, providing private access to the reception area while also featuring a service entrance cleverly camouflaged by metal panels painted in the same color as the walls to ensure visual continuity. A custom-designed travertine bench, integrated as part of the architectural project, serves as both a boundary for the landscaping and provides comfortable seating and rest areas for visitors. This multifunctional approach demonstrates the studio's attention to both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.
Inside the atelier, volumes of raw Roman travertine appear as portals to various access points, including the opening to the staircase leading to the upper floor, which is specially dedicated to serving brides. The same travertine material is worked in various ways throughout the interior, establishing a conceptual continuity between the exterior and interior spaces. This consistent material palette creates a cohesive design narrative that flows seamlessly from the street-facing facade to the most intimate interior spaces.
The project team included executive project management by Laura Marques, lighting design by Lucenera, landscape design by Ambiental paisagismo, custom carpentry work by Mobiliardi, and marble work by Casa Nova. The careful coordination of these specialists resulted in a comprehensive transformation that addresses every aspect of the space. In the washroom, a custom mirror designed specifically for the project was created from overlays of brushed stainless steel panels, reflecting the personalized approach to creating individual pieces for each client of the studio.
Photography by Carolina Mossin captures the elegant interplay of light, shadow, and texture that defines this architectural intervention. The project demonstrates how thoughtful architectural design can serve as a powerful tool for brand renewal, creating spaces that not only function beautifully but also communicate the sophisticated craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines haute couture. The successful integration of natural stone, metal elements, and carefully designed lighting creates an environment that elevates both the products displayed and the overall client experience.
