Little BIG

Little BIG is a relatively compact store that is about one-third the size of Ben’s Independent Grocer’s first establishment at Publika, which is a shopping gallery in Kuala Lumpur. The shop is divided into several sections including Botanical Produce (fruits and vegetables), Barn Butchery, Bay Seafood, Malaya Kitchen (local ingredients) and S.wine Deli. A Cheese Room, which emulates a French fromagerie, is located at the centre with a selection of seasonal cheeses from around the world, coffee by Plan B Roasters, Boulangerie by B’wiched and sweet treats by Ben’s Bake Shop.

The design strategy involved a non-thematic or trend approach, enabling the marketplace to evolve over time. Its design was derived from its aged site context, consumer patterns and branding approach. A combination of contemporary and vintage country marketplace design approaches inspired the creation of the ambiance. Sited on an old faceted fan-shaped building layout, the spaces for the grocery, café and restaurant, dry and wet stores, as well as holding and delivery, are maximised.

The penetration of natural light, use of organic material colour palette, classical music and contrast between black and white characterise the marketplace. The ceiling has a white finish that creates a sense of openness. The flooring is made of white mosaic tiles and the walls comprise painted and steel panels. The walls are painted white to enable the products to stand out, and the supporting structures within the interior are wrapped in dark grey and black steel frames.