Aesop Kanazawa Forus

Dichotomies of time and touch

Straddling the East entrance to Kanazawa Station stands the wooden lattice of the Tsuzumi Gate—a monumental structure of contrasts, modern yet steeped in heritage; a contemporary rendition of a Shinto portal. This fusion of old and new exemplifies the mood of Kanazawa—where traditional Japanese architecture remains a constant presence amid an ever-modernising cityscape. Aesop Kanazawa Forus, set within the open ground-floor space of the retail centre which adjoins the station, builds on this notion. Created in partnership with Marsollier Villacorta LLC, the storeI It also pays tribute to the design principles of Yoshiro Taniguchi in the city of the revered architect’s birth.

Specific inspiration comes from his Hotel Okura in Tokyo. Highly structural, rigid elements combine with subtle curves, their lithe fluidity suggestive of the human form. Throughout, the raw grain of rough-sawn timber stands in contrast to the smooth gloss of Urushi lacquer. The concave lines of the demonstration basins stand out against the linear backdrop, while the distorted reflections from their finish bring a touch of fluidity to an otherwise orderly space.

A polished Fragrance Armoire—the first of its kind in Japan—stands ready to transport intrepid travellers into a realm of olfactory discovery. Lit softly by an orb-shaped pendant, Aesop’s fragrances are displayed alongside an infusion chamber where customers can imbue an item of clothing with their chosen aroma.

The counters, shelving units and support pillars are embroidered with intricate wood joinery, and screened by an expansive ochre wall that provides shelter from the surrounding bustle. Rounded seating areas are formed of wool, in a nod to natural domestic materials.