torafu architects sets tokyo's aesop store within a laboratory setting

torafu architects sets tokyo’s aesop store within a laboratory setting
image © takumi ota

located in tokyo midtown, the high-end australian skin care brand aesop commissioned torafu architects to translate their brand image into a new retail space that has recently opened. the shop unit, situated in a mall, posed restrictions due to its size of 3.8×5.8m and despite the small scale, the architects wanted to create a space which contrasted against the shopping centre’s warm timber and bamboo accents. the products by aesop is characterized by its simple pharmaceutical-like packaging; known for marrying innovative and established scientific methods to craft their formulations.

glass storefront 
image © takumi ota

internally, the design has responded to the brand’s philosophy with its laboratory inspired setting, illustrated in the stainless steel surfaces, white walls, green potted plants and finished off with the focal feature of three custom-blown spherical glass bulbs that provide water during client consultations. the storefront, composed completely of glass, enables people to see into the shop, highlighting the floor-to-ceiling shelves that curves in amongst the clean and lab-like interior- drawing the attention to the aesop products displayed. 

stainless steel shelves where the aesop products are neatly aligned 
image © takumi ota

custom-blown spherical glass bulbs provide water during client consultations
image © takumi ota

the sink below the glass orbs
image © takumi ota

image © takumi ota

the compact size of the shop allows for an approach to product demonstrations
image © takumi ota

project info:

principle use: shop
production: &s
credit: graphics: aesop / lightings: daiko
building site: tokyo midotown, tokyo
total floor area: 24.07m2
design period: 2014.12-2015.03
construction period: 2015.02-03
website: http://www.aesop.com/