Industrial makeover for Avgvst Berlin by Crosby Studios

In a captivating collaboration that draws inspiration from the world of modern art, Crosby Studios and Avgvst Jewelry present their latest venture in the heart of Berlin. Following an earlier summer release that saw the debut of elegant earrings, the creative minds have reunited once again to reimagine the Avgvst Jewelry boutique in Berlin. This time, the innovative concept takes the form of a "ghost kitchen" and permeates the space with redesigned furniture and gleaming stainless steel kitchen fittings in an industrial design.

The Berlin store on the left and the cutlery-inspired jewelry on the right
(Image credit: Left: Benoit Florenço, Right: Avgvst)

Although the exterior façade of Avgvst's store retains the classic appeal of a European jewelry store, stepping through the doors reveals a completely different world. The interior, a harmonious blend of steel elements normally reserved for culinary preparation, stands in stark contrast to the backdrop of exposed brick walls and office blinds. Infused with Avgvst's signature yellow hue, the store presents a vibrant color scheme that artfully balances the industrial aesthetic of the steel kitchen utensils. Notable highlights include an eye-catching sink that greets visitors at the entrance, complete with a spiraling faucet, and a collection of foldable camping tables, chairs and stools that serve as permanent fixtures and demonstrate the brand's commitment to functional design.

However, the transformation of Avgvst's boutique extends beyond the world of culinary imitation. With the unveiling of a creative space within the store, a gem in the form of a tattoo studio hides in the back. This space acts as a pop-up venue, inviting aspiring tattoo artists to showcase their talents in line with Avgvst's visionary ethos. Custom designs, along with those inspired by the brand's playful jewelry collections, will adorn the tattoo studio's offering. To further enhance the store's appeal, a lush backyard garden promises a variety of collaborative activities, including yoga classes, meditation workshops and pop-up dining experiences.

Image credit: Avgvst

The birth of an artistic journey: The birth of the 'Dark Kitchen' inspiration

For those familiar with the convenience of food delivery services, the concept of 'Ghost Kitchens' is probably not unfamiliar. These commercial spaces specialize in creating culinary delights for delivery. Curiously, this concept forms the core of the narrative that interweaves Crosby Studios' Harry Nuriev and Avgvst Jewelry's Natalia Bryantseva. Their journey into a collaboration that combines interior design with jewelry craftsmanship was set in motion during a conversation between the two visionaries. As the discourse meandered through the realms of nomadic interior design, it eventually found its focus in the theme of the "Dark Kitchen," an idea that subsequently catalyzed the birth of the Avgvst x Crosby Studios jewelry collection.

Avgvst's evolution: a story of beauty, protest and creativity

The founder of Avgvst, who moved from Russia to Berlin in 2017, began a journey that intertwined her personal narrative with the essence of the brand. Reflecting on the deep connection between Avgvst and Berlin, Bryantseva notes the shared elements of unbridled beauty, protest, disorder and chaos that embody both the brand and the city. This harmonious convergence laid the foundation for Bryantseva's collaboration with Harry Nuriev, a partnership that began in 2017 with the launch of their first store in Russia. At this point, both Avgvst and Crosby Studios gradually rose to prominence. Bryantsheva's admiration for Nuriev's unique projects, characterized by their unique charm and acceptance of imperfection, solidified their creative alliance. Chance played a role in the creation of Avgvst's signature yellow hue, a chance encounter that ultimately left an indelible mark on the brand's identity.

A fusion of industrial kitchen grace and jewelry elegance

The embodiment of Bryantseva and Nuriev's creative synergy materializes in the walls of the centrally located Avgvst Berlin flagship store in the Mitte district. Beyond the display of exquisite jewelry, the boutique houses a tattoo studio and a hidden garden designed as a communal space for activities. The design palette combines shades of gray, silver and the iconic Avgvst yellow. Cleverly redesigned furniture and blinds transformed into wall decorations create an atmosphere that harmoniously combines functionality and aesthetics. Nuriev's trained eye led him to source steel appliances and shelving from a specialist kitchen store, an unconventional but inspired choice that preserved the raw essence of the materials. The overarching theme of 'Dark Kitchen' provided a simplistic framework that encouraged the reuse of equipment and tools from different industries. Bryantseva succinctly summarizes the thinking: Why create something new when the essence of creativity lies in repurposing? This sentiment resonated with both collaborators and resulted in a captivating fusion of industrial grace and artistic finesse.

Image: Crosby Studios

Image: Crosby Studios

Image: Crosby Studios

Image: Crosby Studios

A legacy of creativity and connection

Beyond the purely commercial, Avgvst's flagship store embodies a deeper purpose - serving as a messenger for messages and fostering community. A space that transcends retail, Bryantseva sees it as a temple where individuals can forge connections, embrace creativity and share in common experiences.

In summary, Avgvst and Crosby Studios' narrative weaves together art, design and human connection, culminating in a masterful fusion that invites visitors to embark on a multi-layered journey of exploration and inspiration.

If you happen to be in Berlin and would like to take the opportunity to visit the Avgvst boutique, you can find it here:

Address: Alte Schönhauser Str. 27, 10119 Berlin