# Townhouse Transformed Retail Spaces Schemata Architects Designs the Le Labo Kyoto Flagship By Amy Duong | Published 2024-09-24 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/le-labo-kyoto References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2024/09/23/rimowa-expands-beyond-luggage-to-launch-the-original-bag/) & [schemata.jp](http://schemata.jp/)  Tokyo-based design studio [Schemata Architects](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/blue-bottle-coffee-cafe) has taken on the project of creating a Le Labo flagship space which blends elements of Japanese and Western design together. It is all nestled in a [traditional wooden townhouse](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yawn-yard) in the city which is also known as a machiya. It is transformed to feature the brand's finishes while still honoring the core of the 145-year-old architectural space. The founder of Schemata Architects, Jo Nagasaka shares with [Dezeen](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/toteme-beijing), "How can a brand born and loved in the USA, a country with a culture of shoes-on, be in step with the values of traditional Japanese architecture, a culture of shoes-off, and blend in with Japanese culture? The project was a struggle between the two." Image Credit: Le Labo ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.7/10 - Popularity: 64% | Activity: 48% | Freshness: 28% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Cultural Fusion Retail Spaces:** Blending elements of Japanese and Western design in retail spaces creates unique consumer experiences that bridge cultural aesthetics. - **Adaptive Reuse Architecture:** Transforming traditional buildings like machiyas into modern retail venues preserves historical architecture while meeting contemporary commercial needs. - **Brand Identity Localization:** Incorporating local architectural and cultural elements into global brand stores enhances brand relatability and appeals to regional markets. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Retail Design:** Innovative retail spaces that merge different cultural designs offer fresh shopping experiences and attract diverse consumer groups. - **Historical Preservation:** Reviving ancient structures for modern use maintains cultural heritage and provides unique, sustainable venues for businesses. - **Global Branding:** Integrating local cultural elements into international flagship stores strengthens brand presence and resonance within local communities. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Philosophical Kyoto Retail Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/le-labo-store.md) - [Contemporary Hanok Experiences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/le-labo-bukchon-hanok.md) - [Renewed Kyoto Townhouses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/studio-aluc.md) - [Retail Wellbeing Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/frama-3.md) - [Updated Traditional Machiya House](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/house-in-marutamachi.md) - [Home-Like Retail Store Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/conran-shop.md) - [Wooden Pillar Japanese Cafes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/blue-bottle-coffee-cafe.md) - [Layered Wood Flagships](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/skin1004.md) - [Residential-Reflective Tranquil Clinics](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aloop-clinic.md)