Shrujan Shop

Located on the outskirts of Bhuj city, this store serves as a significant cultural hub, offering a dual role as both a retail space and an information center for local embroidery and crafts. It stands as a key reference point for the region’s rich artisanal heritage.

The design concept centers around creating a cohesive spatial experience by merging three distinct areas, each placed at different levels within the floor plan. A central square staircase acts as a functional connector between these levels while subtly partitioning the general and discount sections. Its strategic shape and placement also cleverly conceal a level drop, ensuring the varying heights of the space blend harmoniously without disrupting the overall flow. The store design carefully defines distinct zones for various collections, from accessories to apparel, with an additional section dedicated to discounted items during seasonal sales. Furthermore, a special space was crafted to highlight high-end products, ensuring an exclusive display methodology and a unique visitor experience.

A key part of the design and fabrication process was collaborating with local carpenters, empowering them to integrate contemporary design practices into their craft. This collaboration aligns with Shrujan's mission to promote local arts such as terracotta, metalwork, and lacquer from Kutch. An accent space was dedicated to showcasing these traditional crafts alongside the apparel displays, further enriching the store’s narrative.Matrika Design Collaborative also explored innovative material usage, employing the malleability of stainless steel to create perforated, turned-leaf partitions that define the space. The high-end section on the first floor features minimalist, innovative displays for cushions and stoles, seamlessly blending into the overall design.

Traditional Lippan Kaam (mud work), a renowned craft of the Kutch region, was restored and displayed as wall art throughout the store, enhancing the cultural connection. To meet budgetary constraints while maintaining high design standards, the lighting strategy was optimized to accentuate displays and break the monotony of long parallel walls. We designed a custom downlighting system using track lights and linear fixtures, strategically illuminating the store interiors.

Unlike typical retail stores, the Shrujan store is an integral part of the Shrujan experience, attracting tourists, textile designers, and design and architecture students, offering them a unique and educational visit.