TORAFU architects uses curved wooden framework to define space of tokyo aesop interior

TORAFU architects has completed ‘aesop shibuya’ in tokyo, japan, its tenth retail outlet for the australian skin care brand. the project called for the interior redesign of a first floor space along meiji avenue, trailing towards the city’s lively harajuku area. the existing structure has a frontage of 7 meters and a depth of 12 meters with architects retaining the original framework with the addition of an curved infrastructure which navigates the retail experience.

images courtesy of aesop

the store takes cues from the ever-changing atmosphere of shibuya, an area where old towns and new architecture coincide. after dismantling the existing interior a concrete skeleton was left exposed which TORAFU architects decided to leave in its current condition. the rawness of this is complimented by fixtures made from chestnut wood offering a clean finish and a contrasting tactility. japanese wood furniture maker karimoku new standard was commisioned by TORAFU to handle production of these fixtures which organize the space like a tiered gallery.

the curvature of these wooden units helps to delineate the interior, forming part of a larger infrastructure which navigates the space as a whole. the roundabout plan is centered on a large sink, a mainstay in aesop stores which aims to create an authentic experience encouraging customers to try out products. running adjacent to the left-hand side of the space, a separate island offers a place for point of sale. meanwhile, a curved bench at the front of the store, mirroring the form of the tiered shelving sat opposite, creates an intimate space for visitors to sit. as for the floor, cashmere carpet occupies areas on the existing concrete giving an impression of softness starting at the feet whenever people enter the store from the hard road surface.

the architects chose galvanised steel cladding for the aesop outlet, imparting unity between the façade and the metal fittings inside. serving as the face of the street-level store, the façade was designed to inherit the existing environment by adding eaves that appear to repeat the arch-shaped gate applied to the entrance of the next-door building.

‘we thought of a space where foundation and finish would coexist,’ TORAFU architects explains. ‘as though in response to the continuous renewal of shibuya, we aimed to create a store space that possessed a dynamic contrast between the old and the new.‘

credits

architects: TORAFU architects
principal use: shop
production: d.brain, karimoku
credit: graphics: aesop / lighting design: branch lighting design
site area: shibuya, tokyo
total floor area: 85m2
design period: 2018.7-2018.9
construction period: 2018.10-11