# Sandstone Skincare Boutiques The Aesop Edinburgh Store is the Brand's First to Open in Scotland By Rebecca Byers | Published 2016-03-28 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-edinburgh References: [retaildesignblog.net](http://retaildesignblog.net/2016/03/27/aesop-store-edinburgh-uk/) & [superfuture](http://superfuture.com/supernews/edinburgh-aesop-store-opening) The [Aesop Edinburgh](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-outlet) is the latest outpost from the Melbourne-based cult skincare brand. The first Aesop store to open its doors in Scotland, the quaint boutique continues in the brand's tradition of creating [experience-based stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/experience-center-1) that reflect both local and brand histories. The store is located on the ground level of a multi-story historic building designed by Scottish architect William Playfair in the Stockbridge area of the city. In this case, the Aesop Edinburgh store was designed in collaboration between the brand's in-house team and local design firm [Method](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/book-tower), who created a stunning reclaimed wood floor that complements the sandstone walls and limestone sink. The inclusion of the sandstone is a not-so-subtle reference to the city of Edinburgh's architectural makeup. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.4/10 - Popularity: 29% | Activity: 36% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Experience-based Stores:** Exploring the concept of creating immersive and memorable retail experiences that reflect both the local and brand histories. - **Collaborative Design:** Emphasizing the importance of collaboration between brands and local design firms to create unique and aesthetically appealing store environments. - **Architectural References:** Incorporating architectural elements in store designs as a way to pay homage to the local surroundings and add a sense of authenticity. ### Who This Affects Most - **Skincare:** Exploring innovative approaches to store design in the skincare industry to enhance the overall brand experience and customer engagement. - **Retail:** Applying collaborative design strategies to retail environments to create visually striking and immersive spaces that attract and captivate customers. - **Interior Design:** Utilizing architectural references in interior design projects to create unique and authentic spaces that resonate with the local community. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Tactile Soap-Adorned London Shops](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-outlet.md) - [Sensorial Luxury Beauty Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-flagship.md) - [Book Pile Retail Decor](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-store-1.md) - [Medallion-Detailed Retail Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-store-2.md) - [Women's Literature-Inspired Skincare Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/womens-literature-library.md) - [Algae Lit Retail Caves](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-hainan.md) - [Scotland-Themed Spa Treatments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hot-stone-massage.md) - [Scandinavian Aesthetics-Forward Shop Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/scandinavian-aesthetics.md) - [Illuminating Collaborative Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-and-bocci.md)