When I think about how a space capable of surprising and engaging people comes to life, I firmly believe that the most powerful creativity emerges from a mix of diverse experiences, visions, and expertise. This is precisely the approach that was adopted in designing the Gallery Shop at the new Sydney Modern for the Art Gallery of NSW, combining architecture, industrial design, and material experimentation to create a truly unique space.
The Gallery Shop, designed by Akin Atelier in collaboration with surfboard designer Hayden Cox, represents an innovative large-scale resin installation. As part of Sydney’s most significant cultural development in the past 50 years, the structure merges architectural design and material experimentation to deliver a luminous and dynamic environment that harnesses natural light while reflecting the surrounding urban landscape.
The custom resin, developed by Cox, was crafted into 29 unique modules, each hand-finished over more than three weeks, to achieve color gradations inspired by Sydney’s sandstone. The project required two years of research and development, combining craftsmanship and technology to push the boundaries of traditional resin applications.
Conceived as both a retail space and sculptural installation, the Gallery Shop demonstrates how interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative use of materials can transform a commercial space into an immersive artistic experience, enhancing the transparency and light of the new building designed by SANAA.
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