Gantri, the lighting manufacturer known for its 3D-printed designs with plant-based polymers, has opened its first brick-and-mortar showroom simply called, The Shop. ZOMUZI, a design practice founded by Mzwakhe “Muzi” Ndlovu, brought the space to life with an aptly tech-forward and futuristic vision. For the project, ZOMUZI converted a former auto-body shop in San Francisco, drenching the 1,600-square-foot space in Gantri’s signature color: green.
The verdant world of Gantri is apparent even before stepping into the space. From the street, the new green garage door offers the first visual cue. It’s also a reflection of the design’s interweaving of the building and its new tenants. ZOMUZI pays homage to the design and social history of the South of Market district where The Shop is located. The neighborhood’s early adoption of art deco styles particularly comes to the forefront: the facade preserves the pseudo-art deco exterior from 1937.
The lineage continues inside where grid-like ceiling lights are inspired by the design era. Underneath, they meet with Gantri’s material-forward and viridian world.
Floor-to-ceiling muslin drapery lays the foundation for a textured backdrop, falling behind the tiled front desk. Beyond, the space includes a seating lounge, defined by a screen of tiles, 3D printed with Gantri’s sustainable proprietary materials. This modular “woven” screen helps frame moments in the gallery and store.
Along the walls, a configurable shelving system puts Gantri’s designs on display. The free-standing system is made from pigmented MDF panels and removable fabric that can be adapted as a product display or exhibition setup.
The Shop will function as both a showroom for in-store purchase as well as a studio for Gantri to meet with collaborators and work on designs. Behind the modular screens and drapery, the space extends into adjacent offices. During events, the partitions can be pulled back to give visitors full access to the The Shop’s 3,000-square-foot footprint.
