Aesop works in collaboration with designer Samuso Hyojadong to create a new store location in Seochon, Seoul. It is defined by the open facade with a large stone plinth. The two drew inspiration from the traditional architecture of jeongjas when creating the space, which are Korean pavilions that have no walls. These are meant to be a space of rest and taking in the views that surround them.
The store faces the street and is made with mesh metal screens that are able to open fully to create a storefront with no walls at all. When it is closed, the backing creates clear windows. The design team at Aesop explains to Dezeen, “Samuso extended the floorplate outwards to create a threshold that conveys a generous sense of hospitality. One [jeongja] in particular that inspired us was the Soswaewon in the Damyang region, which was built in the sixteenth century and is surrounded by a verdant garden.”