The Beton Cire Paint Showroom

Inspired by the work of Kazimir Malevich and Le Corbusier, this fascinating showroom space blurs the line between art, design and architecture.

Located a vibrant area of Chengdu, China, the creatively designed Beton Cire showroom gives a nod to the city’s rich cultural history and thriving arts scene while welcoming visitors into an artistic space. Ni Dongbo of Zhejiang-based Chinese studio NDB Design created the interiors with the firm’s signature avant-garde aesthetic and imaginative details. To complete this project, the designer took inspiration from the work of artist Kazimir Malevich and from the designs of Le Corbusier. More specifically, from the Black Square (1915) and Suprematist Composition (1916) paintings created by Malevich and Le Corbusier’s La Roche House. And the result? An unconventional showroom space that offers a captivating experience to visitors and clients, who are all encouraged to explore, discover, and interact with a series of objects and imaginative installations.

Right from the entrance, the studio’s vision becomes clear. As visitors step into the showroom, they discover a dramatically lit space with a curated selection of objects that give a nod to the city’s architecture and culture. For example, a traditional wood chair celebrates the area’s woodcrafting techniques, while a green metal canopy reminds of the surrounding rooftops. A cantilevered countertop also references local design elements. As for the colors, they come from the Beton Cire catalog, creating a beautiful parallel between the showroom space and the city’s history and architectural landscape.

Creative details paint a captivating setting throughout the showroom’s different zones, that elegantly flow into one another. Bright colors set against black backgrounds, abstract patterns, and unusual features abound, along with an unconventional use of materials and found objects. For instance, one wall boasts a taped broom – an unexpected detail that connects the entrance area to the main showroom space.

Salvaged from an abandoned local building, a vintage window with a yellow frame offers a view into the lounge area. On the glass, the white marks left during the construction phase were embraced by the designer and preserved as a Malevich-style element. Elsewhere, thin plastic sheets cover pastel-hued objects; a white curtain boasts splashes of bright paint; and paint brushes dipped in different colors showcase the company’s palette in a fun way. Photography by Yunmian Photography Studio.