Aesop Sendai Parco 2

A suspended forest canopy

Our in-house architects looked to Sendai’s renowned Tanabata festival for inspiration when designing our second Parco 2 incarnation. They became fascinated with the elaborate paper and bamboo decorations that are crafted for the ancient celebration of the stars Altair and Vega—which represent Japanese deities—crossing paths. Every summer, thousands of handmade streamers are hung on bamboo poles in the streets and shopping arcades, which come to resemble brightly coloured forests. The secondary prompt was our first store in the retail centre, which had been located in the neighbouring lot and characterised by timber and dark tones. The result is a meeting of these two influences—celestial and earthly.

Upon entrance, one is enveloped in the warmth of timber joinery, deep green-grey hues, and the diffuse light emanating from a rhythmic installation above. Strips of woven cotton are hung from the ceiling in reference to the Tanabata ribbons. With this joyous gesture overhead, guests can explore Aesop’s range of products for the skin, hair, body and home at their leisure. At the central quartet of basins, running water facilitates the lathering of cleansers and the cleansing of hands—a hallmark of the Aesop in-store experience. If a degree of privacy is desired, visitors can tuck themselves away in the ensuite, where an individual basin and looking glass encourage the application of formulations directly onto one’s face. The brand’s fragrances for the self and home can be encountered while resting on the banquette, perhaps also taking in the serene and yet festive environment.