Aesop Aoyama by Schemata Architecture Office

23 December 2010

Japanese architect Jo Nagasaka of Schemata Architecture Office used materials reclaimed from a demolished house for the interior of this Tokyo shop for Australian skincare brand Aesop.

Located in a former vegetable shop, the project involved reusing timber, handles and furniture found in the demolished house.

Features of the empty shop such as pipes and drain covers were highlighted by coating in resin.

"We find a demolished house anywhere in the world," says Nagasaka. "We use a place in different purposes anywhere in the world. We get a space in skeleton condition anywhere in the world."

More about Schemata Architecture Office on Dezeen »

Photographs are by Alessio Guarino.

Here's some more information from Aesop:

Aesop is proud to open in Tokyo, on the Ground Floor of the Asada building in Minami-Aoyama. Behind the humble facade sits a small store with a remarkable story.

Architect Jo Nagasaka, when considering how to create a functional yet poetic retail space for Aesop’s range of skin and hair products, came upon an abandoned house, the Murazawa residence in Nakano- ku.

Recognising the possibilities for reusing the wooden boards and beams, Nagasaka collaborated with Aesop Director Dennis Paphitis on a design that incorporates old and new materials, and pays homage to Japan’s well-established tradition of fusing modern and traditional.

The project was challenging, but the result is a space that is simple, practical and warm.

Aesop was founded in 1987. We offer a range of exceptional skin, hair and body products through our thirty international concept stores, and department and specialty store counters.

The brand has attracted a loyal following from the beginning for our unwavering commitment to product ingredients, minimalist packaging, and intelligent communication with our customers.