Aesop Store in Kichijoji by Schemata Architecs

In the bustling city of Tokyo, where modernity and tradition intersect, Aesop Kichijoji seamlessly blends skincare with architecture, perfectly epitomizing Aesop's commitment to sustainability and aesthetics.

Sustainability as an Art Form

Australian skincare brand "Aesop" has been a core part of people's lives since its establishment in 1987. After opening their first store in Japan in 2010, located in Tokyo's Aoyama district, they have expanded to various bustling commercial areas. However, their recent choice of Kichijoji reflects a return to their original philosophy. They enlisted the services of Schemata Architects, renowned for their innovative and environmentally conscious designs, led by architect Jo Nagasaka, who had previously designed the Aoyama store. The aim for the Kichijoji store's design was to minimize its impact on the environment and preserve the town's history and character to the greatest extent. What makes this store unique is its ingenious use of materials, born out of environmental considerations, resulting in a theme of "hyperlocal." Instead of relying on new resources, the architects chose to repurpose a 60-year-old house slated for demolition, demonstrating a full commitment to the beauty of sustainability and their determination for the store to integrate seamlessly with the local community and environment.

A Deconstructed House Reimagined

The design concept is nothing short of poetic. It’s a playful re-interpretation of a demolished house. The timbers of the old house were transformed into the very bones of the store, as beams were cut in halves to reveal a new side of the material. The history-laden textures of these beams evoke a sense of time and memory. This is a place where the past is not erased but is celebrated in a unique and artistic manner.

A Journey of Exploration

As visitors enter Aesop Kichijoji, they embark on a journey of exploration. The transformed timbers create a series of shelves, forming pathways and alcoves. Every corner tells a story. It’s a place of wonder, where you can lose yourself among the shelves, discovering Aesop’s products and culture at your own pace. The architecture encourages you to meander, to take your time, and to be surprised.

Schemata Architects

The sink is a collaborative creation by Schemata Architects and a skilled Japanese contractor. The sink’s design, crafted by the architects, was finished with a striking red lacquer by the contractor. This unique and artistic sink design showcases a fusion of architectural creativity and meticulous craftsmanship.

Aesop Culture and Products

The store is not just a place to purchase skincare products; it’s a window into the world of Aesop. Here, the brand’s culture is showcased as a deeply insightful architectural project. Aesop’s commitment to authenticity, quality, and sustainability is not just preached but tangibly experienced in every nook and cranny.

A Lesson in Sustainable Luxury

Aesop Kichijoji is a masterclass in sustainable luxury. It demonstrates that a commitment to environmental responsibility need not compromise on elegance and sophistication. Sustainability can be both practical and beautiful, and this store exemplifies that principle. Every visit is not just a shopping experience but an immersion into the thoughtful design and philosophy of Aesop.

They meticulously select and manually dismantle usable ancient building materials, transporting them piece by piece to the store using hand-pulled carts. This manual transportation process allows local residents to witness the entire endeavor. Their hope is that when local residents see the final store, they can recognize the potential of these once-transported antique building materials, embodying the concepts of community interaction and sustainable architecture. Their awareness of reducing carbon emissions and attempts to quantify the environmental impact of their designs have influenced changes in design styles. To reduce the environmental burden of material transportation, they decided to perform wood processing and manufacturing in-house, among other practices. The space utilizes ancient materials and exudes an atmosphere akin to a quaint alley, allowing every guest to comfortably enjoy exclusive service.

They aim for this store to become a beloved place for local residents and those frequenting the commercial streets, a shop that offers a leisurely shopping experience. Furthermore, they hope this store will inspire people's concern for the environment, believing that the trendsetting brand Aesop can effectively and naturally convey this environmental concept.

Via: http://www.dinzd.com