Nestled in the heart of Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighborhood, the Aesop boutique stands as a masterpiece of design, drawing inspiration from the breathtaking geography of Vancouver Bay. Designed by _naturehumaine, this store embodies a captivating contrast of elements, seamlessly blending materials and textures to reflect the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
A Tribute to Kitsilano’s Roots
The Kitsilano neighborhood, named after its Amerindian origins, flourished during the 1950s and 1960s as a hub for the hippie movement and cultural diversity. Known for its colorful homes clad in light wood and pastel-toned plaster, this vibrant area provided the perfect inspiration for Aesop’s store design. Reflecting this heritage, the boutique features a pastel pink façade that harmonizes with the neighborhood’s iconic aesthetic.
Inspired by Vancouver’s Natural Beauty
Vancouver’s dramatic landscape – a city perched on the water’s edge, framed by towering mountains – played a central role in shaping the boutique’s interior. The store design captures the essence of this geographical interplay, combining raw and refined materials to reflect the contrast between the rugged mountains and their shimmering reflections in Vancouver Bay.
A Design of Symmetry and Contrast
The boutique’s concept revolves around symmetry and duality, mirroring the relationship between land and water. The space is divided into two distinct sections:
Mineral and Matte: One side of the store is covered with a matte mineral surface, evoking the rawness of the mountains.
Dark and Shiny: The opposite side features a darker, glossy finish that reflects the brilliance of water.
These contrasts create a harmonious balance, drawing visitors into the heart of the design narrative.
Marble and Wood: A Nod to History
The store’s fixtures and finishes further enhance its storytelling. Counters are crafted from pink and green marble, symbolizing the pastel tones of the façade and the lush greenery of Vancouver’s landscape. The vertical walnut wood panels lining the walls reference the city’s historical timber trade, while amber bottles placed on shelves nod to this bygone era.
A Space That Resonates with Nature and Heritage
The Aesop boutique in Kitsilano is more than a retail store—it’s an immersive experience that pays homage to Vancouver’s natural beauty and cultural history. With its thoughtful design and meticulous attention to detail, the boutique invites visitors to explore a world where nature and architecture meet in perfect harmony.
Photo Credit: courtesy of Aesop
Discover more from Home Design Folio
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
