Nestled in Barcelona, Spain, the Aesop Store designed by BAROZZI VEIGA redefines the retail experience through meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful spatial design. With its minimalist aesthetic and strategic placement of elements, the store invites visitors on a journey of discovery and intimacy.

A Monolithic Entrance

From the exterior, a monolith of dark metal stands as a mysterious sentinel, beckoning passersby to enter. This enigmatic structure, nestled between two building columns, serves as both a continuation of its surroundings and a distinct entrance, setting the stage for the unique experience that awaits inside.

Spatial Composition

Upon crossing the threshold, visitors are greeted by a space that is deceptively simple yet profoundly impactful. Spanning a mere three and a half meters in width, twelve meters in length, and five meters in height, the rectangular interior is adorned with three slender columns clad in burnished steel, exuding a sense of majesty and grandeur.

Harmonious Dialogue

Asymmetrically arranged within the space, the columns serve as the focal point, orchestrating the flow of movement and activity around them. Complementing their verticality is a counter, crafted from the same burnished steel, delicately suspended from the wall. Together, they form a harmonious dialogue, each element enhancing the other’s presence.

Artistic Display

Alongside the counter, steel trays float effortlessly on the wall, showcasing the diverse array of Aesop products. This curated display transforms the entire wall into a captivating art installation, blending ephemeral beauty with enduring sophistication.

Sensory Exploration

Guided by the interplay of elements, visitors are encouraged to explore the space freely. As they traverse the store, they encounter a small semicircular room where the counter seamlessly transitions into an intimate enclave, inviting contemplation and connection with the surroundings.

Choreographed Experience

Like a choreographed performance, the sequence of elements guides visitors towards the exit, where a surprise awaits. A curtain unfurls, enveloping the semicircular room in a veil of mystery, transforming the space once more and leaving a lasting impression on the viewer.

Essence Revealed

In stripping down the existing space to its essence, BAROZZI VEIGA has created a store that embodies the character of Aesop. With its minimalist palette of materials—stucco, terrazzo, and burnished steel—the space strikes a delicate balance between simplicity and complexity, sophistication and approachability, intimacy and monumentality.

Conclusion

The Aesop Store by BAROZZI VEIGA transcends the traditional retail experience, offering visitors a journey of discovery and sensory exploration. Through its meticulous design and thoughtful curation, the store invites patrons to immerse themselves in the essence of Aesop, forging a deep and lasting connection with the brand.