For the Norwegian high-end shoemaker Faust, architecture studio Snøhetta has created a complete visual identity and the brand’s very first signature store in Norway’s capital, Oslo. Meet a Norwegian high-end shoemaker with high-end interior
Architecture studio Snøhetta created not just the interiors of the store in Oslo’s modern, buzzy Barcode Project, but also the entire brand identity including web design and business cards, right down to a customized typeface that’s based on 17th-century manuscripts for the signage and business cards.
Norwegian High-end Shoemaker with High-end Interior
Faust founder Alvaro Miranda comes from a family of shoemakers. His aim is to continue the for centuries practically unchanged art of shoemaking, and create a personalized experience and a customized result by using a contemporary approach. His store offers both tailor-made shoes as well as handcrafted ready-made shoes.
Related: A Norwegian’s Passion for Design
The showstopper
The showstopper, though, is the interior. Snøhetta has created a space that is positively Gothic in its moody romanticism and sly homage to Goethe, and customers are invited to be part of shoemaking, from the measuring of the feet to the final sculpting and sewing.
The art of shoemaking has remained practically unchanged for centuries, and Faust aims to continue the cordwainer’s tradition with a contemporary approach while honoring their time-tested methods. The artisanship is central in the design concept, striving to create a personalized experience and a customized result.
Related: A Norwegian Furniture Design Icon
Almost religious architecture
The entire length of one wall is lined with five vaulted concrete niches interspersed with perfectly milled and oiled oak doors. The latter slide open to reveal shoe boxes and, literally, the tools of the trade – the instruments and leather swatches that transform feet patterns into lasts and, ultimately, finished shoes. The niches refer to a historic, almost religious architectural language, giving homage to the quality driven trade of shoemaking.
Related: New Designs by Norwegian Interior Designer Andreas Engesvik
Online insight
Drawing the link back to today’s digital world, the Faust experience starts online. Snøhetta designed and developed in its entirety a simple yet elegant website that allows the customer to gain a greater insight into the process of shoemaking. Applying the custom typeface and selected colors also digitally gives Faust a holistic and consistent feel throughout its identity and brand.
“Now I take you into my keeping, a welcome, and silent guest.”
FaustNorwegian High-end Shoemaker with High-end Interior, written by Tor Kjolberg