# MANERA Designs U-Shaped Children's Retail Space in Medellín A flexible commercial environment centered around a void to redefine retail scenography. - **Source:** [ArchDaily Global](https://brifing.si/source/b856ce4a-b51b-4705-954b-40620e034caa) - **Published:** 2026-11-01 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/14ab5004-5f96-4437-b38f-b7255b37118e ## Project Overview and Scope The U-shaped store project, designed by the MANERA atelier, encompasses a total area of 170 square meters. Located in Medellín, Colombia, this commercial retail space was completed in 2026. The architectural design focuses on creating a specialized environment tailored specifically for a children's store, emphasizing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. ## Architectural Design Philosophy Lead architects Maria Fernanda Serna and Victor Maréchal spearheaded the design process for this retail establishment. The project intentionally explores the complex relationship between retail space, scenography, and architecture. By integrating these three distinct elements, the team aims to move beyond traditional store layouts to create a more immersive shopping experience. ## Spatial Organization Strategy The core of the architectural proposal relies on a flexible environment organized around a central void. This U-shaped configuration allows for dynamic movement and visibility within the 170 square meter footprint. By utilizing a central void, the architects provide a versatile stage that can adapt to various retail displays and seasonal needs. ## Contextual Retail Development Retail architecture in Medellín continues to evolve by prioritizing experiential design over simple product placement. The MANERA project reflects this shift, treating the store as a scenographic space rather than a static warehouse. This approach helps brands engage younger audiences through spatial storytelling, which is increasingly vital in competitive urban commercial markets. ## Technical Project Specifications The project was officially documented and published on November 01, 2026, with photography provided by Juan Camilo Roa. While specific material descriptions remain missing from the public technical specifications, the structure is categorized strictly under commercial architecture and retail design. The design serves as a case study for compact, high-impact retail planning. ## Flexibility in Commercial Design Flexibility remains a primary requirement for modern retail environments, especially within limited footprints like 170 square meters. By adopting a U-shaped layout, the architects ensure that the store can be reconfigured without structural changes. This adaptability is crucial for retailers who need to rotate inventory and change store themes frequently throughout years. ## Scenography as a Tool Scenography in retail architecture functions as a bridge between the product and the consumer's emotional response. MANERA uses this technique to transform the store into a narrative space for children. By focusing on the void, the design directs the customer's gaze and creates a controlled, engaging path through the entire retail area. ## Impact on Retail Architecture The completion of the U-shaped store highlights the importance of intentional spatial planning in small-scale commercial projects. By prioritizing a central void and flexible circulation, MANERA demonstrates how architects can maximize utility in restricted urban spaces. This project serves as a reference for future retail developments seeking to balance aesthetic form with function. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.archdaily.com/1187442/u-shaped-store-manera — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._