Snøhetta’s latest interior for Aesop mixes Gothic vaults and retrofuturism

As if it were a holy water stoup in a Gothic cathedral, the large central sink designed by Snøhetta in London lets customers try Aesop’s wellness products, under a vaulted ceiling.

Snøetta, Aesop King of York Square, London, 2017

Oslo-based studio Snøhetta designed its seventh shop for Aesop. Located in Chelsea, London, the interiors are inspired by the rich context in which is set, with a colour scheme that combines royal rose and stainless steel. The design revolves around a central circular sink that expands out of a central column with clay-based plaster arches. These resemble gothic rib vaults and extend through the whole space.

The smooth stainless steel and polished concrete floor create a strong contrast with the texturized pink walls. Juxtaposing warm and cold, industrial and handcrafted materials is a typical feature in Aesop’s shops, which have been designed with local know-hows worldwide.

Snøhetta, Aesop Duke of York Square, London, 2017
  • Aesop Duke of York Square
  • 108 sqm
  • Snøhetta
  • Denton Corker Marshall
  • Concept Design
  • Clayworks