Akelarre Supermarket in Mallorca by Minimal Studio

Located on the north coast of Mallorca at the port of Pollensa, the 193 m² Akelarre supermarket was also designed by Minimal Studio. Clean lines and geometric shapes characterise the urban retail space, which is designed as a raw concrete shell. 

Each crate gently diffuses natural or artificial light throughout the sales area. © Leonardo Cóndor 

The ceiling makes an architectural statement, and dark portals on the exterior facade lead visitors into the contrasting, brightly lit interior of the "Plastic Box". There, the name of the supermarket becomes clear immediately: over 1,000 recycled plastic crates adorn the modular ceiling. Precisely aligned, the crates serve as both a design element and a means of concealing LED lighting, ventilation systems and rainwater harvesting systems. Each individual crate also gently diffuses natural or artificial light throughout the sales area. Sculptural, monolithic sales counters, steel shelves and polished concrete floors complement the concept of a minimalist design. 

With their choice of materials for the interior, Minimal Studio is deliberately positioning itself against commercial oversupply. © Leonardo Cóndor 

Minimal Studio's choice of materials has enabled them to create a minimalist interior that focuses on the essentials and deliberately positions itself against commercial excess. The transition from a dark exterior to a light interior creates a striking spatial dynamic, breaking with the usual shopping experience and setting itself apart from typical retail design. However, it remains to be seen whether this radical aesthetic will be successful in attracting a wider audience in everyday life.