yinjispace

INTERIOR
Goodbye2000
PHOTOGRAPHY
Oleh Kardash
EDITOR
Gina
Collection

Months after being destroyed by the Valencia flood disaster, Óptica Vistalia reopens its doors in a new space designed by Estudio Goodbye 2000 in the Valencian town of Chiva. In October 2024, the torrential rain storm that severely affected the Valencia region devastated María Alarcón's optical shop—a business built over the years with dedication and care. The space was completely destroyed, along with much of the personal project that its owner had lovingly created, defined by a unique, thoughtful approach that made her stand out.

“When we heard what had happened, we immediately reached out to María. We wanted to help—not just because of the affection we have for her, but because we knew that, after the shock, what she wanted most was to return to her routine, to reconnect with her work and her community. For her, reopening wasn't just a professional step—it was a way to heal,” say Sergio and Javier, founders of the studio.

The project began with a space very different from the original: a neutral commercial premise with no recognizable features, the typical grid ceiling of an old office, and no distinct character. Yet it also offered a blank canvas—a chance to begin a new chapter from scratch. The challenge wasn't only to design a functional optical store, but to create a space that would speak of María and her approach to her craft. A place to start again without forgetting where she came from.

The design was conceived as a tool to build an identity that reflects María's values: approachable, detail-oriented, and deeply empathetic. Custom-designed furniture structures the flow of the space and integrates naturally, creating a fluid and welcoming experience. A few pieces rescued from the original shop—including part of the counter, some shelving, and a lamp—have been woven into the new narrative, creating an emotional bridge between the past and what's to come.

The decision was made to keep the grid ceiling but paint it the same color as the rest of the space, helping it blend in visually and reinforcing a sense of unity. That color became one of the project's strongest allies: a warm, enveloping palette that completely transforms the perception of the space, moving away from the sterile feel of a traditional optical store and instead evoking calm, trust, empathy, and professionalism.

Every decision—from material choices to lighting design—was made with a clear intention: to create a space with its own identity, one that reflects who María is and how she cares for the people she works with every day. This project is more than a renovation. It's a powerful example of how design can be a tool for resilience, capable of transforming hardship into spaces filled with soul and meaning.

MORE PHOTOS