Francesc Rifé, industrial and interior designer, founded his own studio in Barcelona in 1994 and since then has won numerous design awards such as Contract World, Red Dot, ICFF Editors, HiP in Chicago, FAD and several ASCER awards.

Influenced by minimalism and following a family tradition linked to craftsmanship, his work focuses on material honesty, spatial order and geometric proportion. He leads a team of professionals from various fields of design, which allows him to carry out varied projects ranging from architecture to industrial design, interior design, concept creation, installations, graphics and art direction, both national and international.

Nino Álvarez is a multi-brand firm that sells high-end fashion for men. It started in the world of fashion in 1970, with the opening of its first shop in Sant Cugat del Vallès (Barcelona).  This same shop is still open at 23 Santa María street, dedicated exclusively to masculine fashion. It was not until 2003, with the incorporation of a new generation in the business, that Nino Álvarez decided to start expanding. In the same year, a second shop was opened in Barcelona, specifically at 339 Muntaner street, with a modest space of 50 m².

The new design language created by Francesc Rifé for the Álvarez’ menswear shops arrives in Madrid with a more futuristic and industrial tone. While illusions generated by stainless steel speak of change and experimentation, the classic character of the Marquina marble reminds us of the origin and the sophisticated style that has always defined the brand.

A metallic vertebral column extends from the ceiling throughout the space, incorporating the technical lighting and creating structures that descend and allow the garments to be hung. As a neutral backdrop for these and other integrated display areas, grey microcement has been used, which also covers the floor. Under the same idea of impartiality, black-tinted oak wood is used to shape support elements: tables, display shelves and shelving that radically cross the space, absorbing the structural pillars of the project. A detailed and rational line of work that connects the more than 15 years of collaboration between the studio and the property.

Satin finish AISI 304 stainless steel dresses the entire side of the space where the entrance, the counter, bar and office area, and finally most of the fitting rooms at the back of the shop. In contrast, the natural veining of the marble tiles draws an original scene in the rest of the project that reminds us of a large abstract painting. Francesc Rifé achieves the balance between change and classic character through his choice of materials.