Finch Avenue Optometry
Inspired by ocular anatomy and biomechanics, we designed an interior fit-out for a North York optometry clinic that riffs on themes of perception, light, contrast, and the rounded shape of the eye.






Finch Avenue Optometry
For the interior fit-out of Finch Avenue Optometry, we took cues from ocular shapes and functions as well as the rotund shape of the space to design a luminous double-height retail showroom with sparkling black accents that communicates understated luxury.
Upon entering the showroom, one is immediately drawn to the prominent ocular installation that cascades down from the ceiling and doubles as a chandelier. Inspired by the biomechanics of the eye and depth of field, the design comprises eight concentric rings, each defined by recessed LED lights, culminating in a mirrored center that emulates the pupil of an eye. This sculptural form creates an organic yet elevated atmosphere while also providing a powerful source of illumination.
A bank of windows encircles the upper portion of the double-height curvilinear wall, drawing daylight into the heart of the showroom. Below, white lacquer shelving with recessed LEDs transmits a pure light, creating the ideal setting for trying on eyeglasses. The adjacent sunglasses zone glows with backlit glass shelving, ideal for testing shades. These custom displays provide a clean and cohesive appearance regardless of changes to the merchandise, unifying the retail experience so that the different glasses’ shapes, sizes, and colours never overwhelm clients.
Polished white Cambria stone tile flooring creates a crisp environment while also helping to amplify brightness within the space. We selected sculptural furniture — comfortable, rounded leather chairs in neutral colours that blend with the overall concept and black granite tables that provide accents. Flat-screen monitors incorporated into the wall create a multi-dimensional experience and add further luminosity and dynamism to the store.
Upon entering the showroom, one is immediately drawn to the prominent ocular installation that cascades down from the ceiling and doubles as a chandelier. Inspired by the biomechanics of the eye and depth of field, the design comprises eight concentric rings, each defined by recessed LED lights, culminating in a mirrored center that emulates the pupil of an eye. This sculptural form creates an organic yet elevated atmosphere while also providing a powerful source of illumination.
A bank of windows encircles the upper portion of the double-height curvilinear wall, drawing daylight into the heart of the showroom. Below, white lacquer shelving with recessed LEDs transmits a pure light, creating the ideal setting for trying on eyeglasses. The adjacent sunglasses zone glows with backlit glass shelving, ideal for testing shades. These custom displays provide a clean and cohesive appearance regardless of changes to the merchandise, unifying the retail experience so that the different glasses’ shapes, sizes, and colours never overwhelm clients.
Polished white Cambria stone tile flooring creates a crisp environment while also helping to amplify brightness within the space. We selected sculptural furniture — comfortable, rounded leather chairs in neutral colours that blend with the overall concept and black granite tables that provide accents. Flat-screen monitors incorporated into the wall create a multi-dimensional experience and add further luminosity and dynamism to the store.
Project Information
Type
Commercial
Location
Toronto, ON
Client
Finch Avenue Optometry
Size
3,000 sf
Team
Tania Bortolotto, OAA, ARIDO
Alex Horber, OAA
Jerry Lin, OAA
Alex Horber, OAA
Jerry Lin, OAA
Awards & Press
Awards
Award of Excellence
ARIDO, 2015
2015 BOY Awards Finalist
Interior Design’s Best of Year Awards, 2015
Lighting Design Awards, International Project of the Year – Interior, Highly Commended
Lighting Magazine, 2015
ARIDO, 2015
2015 BOY Awards Finalist
Interior Design’s Best of Year Awards, 2015
Lighting Design Awards, International Project of the Year – Interior, Highly Commended
Lighting Magazine, 2015
Press
Lighting Special
Mondo Magazine, 2014
Finch Avenue Optometry
Retail Focus UK, July 2014
Mondo Magazine, 2014
Finch Avenue Optometry
Retail Focus UK, July 2014
