# Yin Yang Retail Displays Store with a Floating Staircase Creates Enigmatic Balance Between Levels By Amelia Roblin | Published 2015-02-06 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/store-with-a-floating-staircase References: [retaildesignblog.net](http://retaildesignblog.net/2015/02/06/bazar-noir-concept-store-by-hidden-fortress-berlin-germany/) & [hidden-fortress](http://hidden-fortress.com/) This store with a floating staircase succeeds to separate two distinctive sections of this [upmarket retail outlet](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/contemporary-luxury). The Hidden Fortress design studio of Berlin was hired to give Bazar Noir a contemporary look that would have the power to leave a lasting impression on all consumers who have entered it. Comprising a main floor and a mezzanine, the [homewares and furniture store](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/estilio) features a section with very high ceilings, and another with very low ones. The former has a slick of matte black paint that renders the space almost cavelike; meanwhile, the loft is clad in lovely maritime pine, light-hued and detailed with broad wood grain patterns. These dramatic and contrasting architectural features are certainly distinguishing, but [BN](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/customizable-table-lamp) would generally be remembered as the store with a floating staircase. A full set of timber steps descend between thin walls, with the entire structure held in suspension, just one riser's height above the ground. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.2/10 - Popularity: 68% | Activity: 80% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Multi-level Retail Spaces:** Opportunity to create unique shopping experiences with multiple levels and distinctive design features that create a memorable impression on consumers. - **Floating Staircases in Architecture and Design:** Opportunity to incorporate visually stunning floating staircases in architectural and interior design to create a focal point and enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space. - **High-contrast Decor:** Opportunity to use contrasting materials and colors in home decor and retail design to create a dynamic and visually striking environment. ### Where This Applies - **Retail Design:** Designers and architects can leverage innovative design features, such as mezzanines and floating staircases, to create compelling and memorable retail spaces. - **Home Decor and Furniture:** The use of high-contrast materials and design elements can help furniture and homeware brands create a distinctive brand aesthetic that stands out in a crowded market. - **Architecture and Interior Design:** Architects and interior designers can experiment with unique and visually striking design elements, such as floating staircases, to create one-of-a-kind buildings and spaces. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Bold Architectural Renovations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/flat-iron-house.md) - [Gallery-Like Retail Floors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/globus-basel.md) - [Elegantly Minimalist Retail Environments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retail-environment.md) - [Retail Design Landmarks](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/d142.md) - [Zen-Like Shopping Malls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zenlike-shopping-mall.md) - [Dynamic Organic Store Displays](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/la-manso.md) - [Evocative Mid-Century Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nikos-koulis.md) - [Cave-Like Retail Interiors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cavelike-interior.md) - [Futuristic Commerce Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/deji-plaza-phase-ii.md)