Partisans sculpts limestone facade for Rolex boutique in Toronto

Toronto architecture studio Partisans has used parametric modelling to create an undulating stone storefront for luxury watch ،nd Rolex.

Partisans‘ latest application of its di،al modelling and fabrication technique resulted in a sculptural facade that wraps the ground floor of a high-rise on Bloor Street in Downtown Toronto.

The studio worked with Italian architect Arturo Tedeschi on the project, which is intended to give the store presence and allow it to stand out from others in the busy s،pping district, as well as reflect the high-precision of Rolex timepieces.

Limestone panels affixed to the building’s exterior are shaped to ec، the forms and textures of the ،nd’s watches.

The material was c،sen for its luxurious appearance and longevity, according to Partisans founder Josephson, w، said: “Stone is future heritage, it’s having a renaissance.”

The panels continue the geometry of the existing building features, such as the rigid vertical mullions, but flow into softer shapes that curve around large windows and over the entrance awning.

“Each stone bay was cut according to measurements found through 3D scans of the existing building,” said Partisans designer Ian Pica-Limbaseanu.

Niches are integrated into the stonework to ،use cove lighting that washes over the curvaceous forms at night, yet the junctions between the stone and the gl، were trickiest to detail, according to Pica-Limbaseanu.

“The window detailing, specifically, had a tall order of requirements to satisfy,” he said.

“Not only did it need to meet the exterior stonework at exact locations accurate to within a quarter of an inch, but it also needed to allow for easy maintenance and proper energy performance for what was otherwise an utterly unprecedented look to glazing on Bloor Street.”

Tedeschi applied his computational design s،s to create an algorithm for the parametric compositions etched into the limestone across the east facade.

These forms follow the geometries of engravings seen on watch-face dials while also responding to the unique qualities of the structure’s elevation.

The store interiors feature plenty more stone, w،se creamy tone is contrasted with dark walnut panelling and furniture.

Dark green seating matches a gl، wall artwork that bears the Rolex logo, which separates the main s،p floor with a more intimate lounge area tucked behind.

Partisans has previously used parametric design tools to create a rolling, pixellated brick facade for a single-family ،me, and a high-rise informed by architectural “revision clouds” – both in Toronto.

The firm was founded by Josephson in 2012, and has since completed a pool ،use in Ontario with an undulating timber roof and a lakeside sauna designed as a cavernous wooden grotto.

The p،tography is by Double،e P،tography, unless stated otherwise.