# Apothecary-Inspired Retail Spaces Torafu Architects' Aesop Kawaramachi Store Embodies Minimalism By Jana Pijak | Published 2014-05-31 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-kawaramachi References: [frameweb](http://www.frameweb.com/news/aesop-kawaramachi-by-torafu-architects) & [frameweb](http://www.frameweb.com) Located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan, the Aesop Kawaramachi store by Torafu Architects embraces modern design ideals. The [minimalist shop](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/retail-environment) features apothecary-inspired branding and design details that are a fresh translation of vintage concepts. [Australian skin care brand Aesop](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-and-bocci) commissioned the design studio to create this contemporary and calm retail space. This design compliments its building's existing concrete shell with subtle green accents that add a touch of color to a greyscale palette. The Aesop Kawaramachi space is also accented with liquid fishing, mortar-style shelving and semi-gloss finishes that are a perfect backdrop for Aesop's minimal branding. The shop's first floor space extends upstairs to a gallery area that can be used for a number of different purposes, including private events held inside the shop. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.0/10 - Popularity: 40% | Activity: 13% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North 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 ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Minimalist Retail Spaces:** Designing simple and elegant retail spaces with a minimalistic approach offers opportunities for brands to showcase their products while creating a calming atmosphere for consumers. - **Apothecary-inspired Design:** Creating design elements inspired by vintage apothecaries offers an opportunity for brands to differentiate themselves and add a touch of nostalgia to their spaces. - **Multi-functional Retail Spaces:** Designing retail spaces that can accommodate a range of events offers an opportunity for brands to create a community hub and engage with their customers beyond just shopping. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Beauty and Skincare:** Creating minimalist and apothecary-inspired design experiences for beauty and skincare brands can help showcase their products and offer customers a relaxing shopping experience. - **Fashion and Apparel:** minimalist and multi-functional retail spaces are perfect for fashion and apparel brands to showcase their collections and create a space for events like fashion shows and product launches. - **Home Decor and Furniture:** Designing multi-functional and minimalistic retail spaces offer home decor and furniture brands the opportunity to showcase their products in a calming and elegant environment, while also being able to host events like workshops and product launches. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Traditional Pavilion Skincare Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/samuso-hyojadong.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) - [Townhouse Transformed Retail Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/le-labo-kyoto.md) - [Retail Wellbeing Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/frama-3.md) - [Medallion-Detailed Retail Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-store-2.md) - [texturally artistic fashion stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/acne-studios-flagship-stores.md) - [Algae Lit Retail Caves](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-hainan.md) - [Residential-Reflective Tranquil Clinics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aloop-clinic.md)