Around the World in 30 Years: Aesop’s latest venture in Downtown L.A. has all the trademarks of their archetypal approach to their stores' interiors – custom, unique, locally influenced and highly conceptual.

On the other side of the Pacific Ocean, Melbourne-born speciality skincare label, Aesop, has opened its doors to their latest shopfront on the traditionally “fashionable” streets of Downtown L.A. As tends to be the case for the majority of their retail spaces, the overall design has specific ties to its particular location.

This time in L.A, the interior of the store is made entirely from natural paper, the manufacturers of which are located less than a mile from the site. The desired effect is to create a natural, warm and soothing atmosphere to much like the intended effects of the products themselves.

The walls, doorjambs, countertops, cabinets, a custom pendant light and shelving are all made from the recycled paper treated with a special fire retardant coating for fire protection, durability and added strength. The aforementioned shelves and the countertop are made from cross-laminated paper with a thickness of just 3/8-inch. Yet they’re able to support the weight of the products and withstand constant wear.

The visually simple and understated interior – being the use of one singular hero material to anchor the space – mirrors the elegant simplicity of the brand’s products and packaging.

Aesop
aesop.com

Words by Holly Cunneen