Similar to the massing of Concept #2, this sketch suggests a level of visual excitement without an interesting roofline. The volumes right and left are similar to those of #2, with far more emphasis on the central entry volume.
The drum, in order to provide the vitality the entire façade requires, must be unusual. This particular drum concept was intended to convey a sense of mystery. It is not transparent. It’s a "what’s that?" approach to drawing the customer’s interest. It’s also an opportunity to use a highly reflective sheet metal surface to function as a day or night beacon.
The photos accompanying the sketch suggest some alternative visually arresting drum treatments.
The "Look Out" windows are potentially very exciting opportunities to use new lighting technology, LEDs, irrideum, rear projection, laser, etc. The lighting effect could be as simple as having the environment within the portals constantly changing color, so as one views them the color behind is varying, or as one walks or drives around the drum, each is a subtle change to another color.
This concept explores a fresh approach to Big Box Retailing. The basic building is still a warehouse, but obviously really cool and exciting things are happening inside. It makes sense that of all the retailers out there the ones that sell useful fun (entertainment equipment and computers) ought to look "new". As long as it doesn’t look expensive-new, just fun-new, you haven’t lost the customers. In contrast, maybe you draw in more of those you’re missing.
"I haven’t seen one of those kind of stores before." There’s comfort and familiarity and something unexpected. A business with new products and a new attitude.
