Every great retail space starts with a vision, and for the owner of the newly acquired branch of Just Cruizin Menlyn Maine, that vision came to life with a visit to Cemcrete’s Parktown North showroom, which ignited a creative spark that would play a major role in the design that made this space stand out above the rest.
Born in 1985 from a pair of scissors, cotton muslin, and a visionary spirit, the Just Cruizin brand, rooted in nature, beach culture, and a simpler way of life, has evolved into a leading lifestyle label, embracing an unconventional approach to garment production offering timeless comfort.
Born in 1985 from a pair of scissors, cotton muslin, and a visionary spirit, the Just Cruizin brand, rooted in nature, beach culture, and a simpler way of life, has evolved into a leading lifestyle label, embracing an unconventional approach to garment production offering timeless comfort.
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Brainstorming substrates & finishes
When the branch owner stepped through our showroom doors, they brought with them a dream for creating a unique shopping experience that reflected their brand's ethos. The client shared their aspirations, detailing the ambiance they wanted to create - a blend of modern sophistication and simplicity. They presented us with stunning renders of the shop, showcasing a layout that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Rethinking retail storage with a fresh approach, the owners opted for unique shelving solutions with curves & organic built in units. It became clear that the choice of substate would play an important role in creating the desired shapes as well as choosing a suitable Cemcrete finish. It was an exciting starting point, and we were eager to contribute our expertise to help turn their vision into reality. So sparked a detailed discussion around substrate durability, moisture resistance and overall aesthetic appeal. In the end MDF board came out tops. Not only did it provide the necessary stability but also allowed for elegant, curved shapes that enhanced the overall design. |
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From there we explored our extensive product range to identify the ideal product for the project’s important requirements: substrate suitability, colour palette, texture, and ease of application to meet the project's tight timeframe. CreteCote was perfect for the job. This smooth decorative micro coating brings a unique charm and character, featuring a distinctive mottled finish that creates a visually engaging texture.
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Getting the application team up to speed
As we moved forward with the project the next step was to ensure that the client, and their applicators from Malawi, were fully informed on the application process. Some one-on-one time was spent with the team to provide them with a theoretical overview and handy tips, followed by a practical demonstration.
Using a substrate such as MDF requires some additional preparation to ensure it is ready to receive the decorative coating. Joints between boards presents a challenge, due to possible differential movement, and a slip joint system with Cemcrete’s EIFS BaseCoat and CemLam strips was discussed and demonstrated. This system isolates movement between the boards and the subsequent layers on top, preventing cracking. This is followed by an EIFS BaseCoat & Glass Fibre Mesh combination which is applied over the entire surface, creating a cementitious key for the final finish, CreteCote.
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The Vision Takes Shape
We then provided the client with a detailed specification that would ensure the applicators onsite could follow all the correct steps and application instructions for the 160m² wall areas.
Progress photos began to flood in from the client. Cemcrete’s representative conducted periodic site visits to provide on-the-spot guidance as needed and troubleshoot any challenges that may have come up. It was inspiring to see the applicators working diligently, sometimes putting in late evenings to meet the project's tight deadline. The team’s hard work and dedication were evident in every detail and the MDF was transformed with the smooth & sleek finish of the CreteCote.
We then provided the client with a detailed specification that would ensure the applicators onsite could follow all the correct steps and application instructions for the 160m² wall areas.
Progress photos began to flood in from the client. Cemcrete’s representative conducted periodic site visits to provide on-the-spot guidance as needed and troubleshoot any challenges that may have come up. It was inspiring to see the applicators working diligently, sometimes putting in late evenings to meet the project's tight deadline. The team’s hard work and dedication were evident in every detail and the MDF was transformed with the smooth & sleek finish of the CreteCote.
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A grand opening
Witnessing the opening of the completed retail space was a genuinely jaw-dropping moment.
With its expertly designed shopfitting and showcasing Just Cruizin's notable clothing range, this barren space evolved into a beautiful cohesive retail store.
This project exemplifies the power of collaborative teamwork, thoughtful materials selection, and Cemcrete’s commitment to quality products and excellent support, in creating a space that truly stands out.
Just Cruizin is now poised to engage customers in an immersive shopping experience that authentically reflects the brand's vision.
Witnessing the opening of the completed retail space was a genuinely jaw-dropping moment.
With its expertly designed shopfitting and showcasing Just Cruizin's notable clothing range, this barren space evolved into a beautiful cohesive retail store.
This project exemplifies the power of collaborative teamwork, thoughtful materials selection, and Cemcrete’s commitment to quality products and excellent support, in creating a space that truly stands out.
Just Cruizin is now poised to engage customers in an immersive shopping experience that authentically reflects the brand's vision.
Check out the transformation video here
View the full gallery of this impressive project here