Lock and Be Free: Revolutionizing Urban Locker Design

Wanna One's Innovative Approach to Modernize and Rejuvenate Traditional Locker Spaces

Wanna One, a renowned design studio, has reimagined the concept of urban lockers with their award-winning project, "Lock and Be Free". This innovative design, inspired by the need to alleviate the burden of luggage for city explorers, has transformed the old and cliché locker spaces into a vibrant, modern, and user-friendly environment.

The Lock and Be Free project was born out of a simple yet significant problem faced by many travelers in the heart of Madrid - the inconvenience of dragging heavy suitcases around while trying to enjoy the last few hours in the city. The solution proposed by Wanna One was to create a locker rental service with flexible hours, enabling travelers to securely store their luggage and freely explore the city.

The design of the Lock and Be Free store is a testament to Wanna One's creative prowess. Despite the limited space of only 30 square meters, the store exudes a sense of spaciousness and comfort. This is achieved through the strategic use of materials and colors. The store features a modern urban interior with yellow lockers and white peg boards, creating an atmosphere of freshness and positivity. The combination of matte and glossy finishes further enhances the perception of volume in the small space.

Wanna One's attention to detail extends beyond the physical design of the store. Understanding that many travelers may face language barriers, the studio has incorporated a simple icon-based signposting system. This allows users to easily navigate the store and access information such as the day's weather, average time to the airport, and pricing for the services.

Despite the challenges faced, such as restrictions on façade modifications due to Madrid’s Council regulations and the need to maximize locker numbers within a small space, Wanna One successfully delivered a design that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The Lock and Be Free project has indeed breathed new life into the traditional concept of lockers.

The exceptional design and innovative approach of the Lock and Be Free project have not gone unnoticed. In 2017, it was awarded the Platinum A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award, a prestigious accolade that recognizes world-class, exceptional, and highly innovative designs. This award is a testament to Wanna One's commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and creating solutions that contribute to societal wellbeing.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Wanna One
Image Credits: Photographer: Caulin Photo
Project Team Members: Strategy: Cathy Figueiredo Creative Director: Esther Mengual
Project Name: Lock and Be Free
Project Client: Wanna One


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