Salon de TE: A Luxurious Journey into Timeless Elegance

Setting the Stage for the HK Watch & Clock Fair

With its unique approach to creating a multisensory experience, the Salon de TE stands out as the only hall open to the general public at the fair. In just three days, the design team transformed a 1900m2 space into a thematic luxury journey, allowing visitors to interact with the space and set their expectations before immersing themselves in the world of exquisite timepieces.

The design of the Salon de TE utilized prefabricated aluminum systems clad with vinyl, fabric, and mesh, allowing for a quicker assembly within the tight time frame. The use of technology was also prominent, with life-size train carriages providing visitors with a glimpse inside and offering a multi-sensory visual storytelling experience through props, actors, and animated moving scenery. A suspended 3.5m cubed projection screen added another layer of technological innovation to the space.

The specifications of the design included a concourse area of 500m2 x 3.5m (H) with cool daylight lighting backlighting mesh graphics, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. In contrast, the exhibition hall featured a 6m (H) backdrop with warmer lighting, simulating an evening train platform scene. The surrounding walls were constructed using vinyl graphics, mesh, and fabric cladding on a reusable aluminum system. The design also incorporated eight LCD monitors and a large suspended 3.5m cubed projection screen.

The Salon de TE's functionality was divided into three parts: a concourse reception, a hall entrance, and an open multifunctional space with a stage and bar for various branded event activities. This design allowed for a seamless transition from the introductory space to the branded booths, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Located at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Salon de TE was a marketing component of the 2014 Hong Kong Watch and Clock Fair. The project took four months from concept to completion, with the most challenging aspect being the three-day onsite move-in period. However, through meticulous planning and off-site mock-ups, the design team successfully overcame this challenge and created a truly immersive and captivating space.

The Salon de TE was not only a visual spectacle but also a result of extensive research into the concept of timeless luxury. Drawing inspiration from the golden era of cinema and the romanticized idea of a life of luxury, the design team created a theme centered around the voyeuristic notion of visitors looking into royal train carriage windows. This theme added an element of intrigue and excitement to the overall experience.

The Salon de TE's innovative design and successful execution earned it the prestigious Silver A' Design Award in the Event and Happening Design category in 2016. This award recognizes the outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill demonstrated by the design, as well as its ability to evoke positive emotions and a sense of wonder in visitors.