snøhetta wraps aesop’s interiors in a monumental granite structure in sydney

in its signature minimal, yet local aesthetic, aesop opens a new shop designed by architecture firm snøhetta in sydney, australia. at the heart of the city’s central business district, the shop lies on the pedestrian pitt street, and with its contrasting textures and materials to the surrounding buildings, the store lures passersby into its mysterious charm.

snøhetta aimed to recreate the shop’s serene and peaceful location in the city, bringing those feelings into the space. the design process began with taking inspiration from the coast and waterfront at bondi beach and bringing the greatness and tranquility of its cliffs to the bustling downtown environment.

the store features textured granite slabs, which contrast against the smooth sandstone features of the building, causing people to slow down and wander in. the slabs come together as a neutral gray backdrop in the segmented walls and its grooves integrate the metal shelves in a cohesive move. the rugged surfaces act as a dark canvas for the bottles of body lotions, hand creams and soaps in the store.

the space features a clean metal block in the middle of the room. the centerpiece island includes sinks and soaps, an ideal area for clients to test the products and cleanse. towards the back are more private, individual sinks that allow for a more contemplative product exploration. also at the shop’s rear, lies a small amphitheater that allows visitors to relax and even watch a short film displayed on a built-in screen on the wall.

snøhetta’s combination of the stone, brass metal and concrete, create a balance between monumentality and intimacy. inspired by the monolithic scale and texture of a stone quarry, the room appears to be carved out of a solid piece of granite. the material connects the store’s interiors to sydney’s central buisness district, whose pavements are lined with the durable stone.

project info:

design: snøhetta

client: aesop

location: pitt street, sydney, australia