Aesop
Retail Design

MDS explored how Aesop’s approach to materiality and product discovery could translate into an open retail environment. The design challenge was to create a calm, recognisable presence in a busy shopping setting while making space for browsing, product testing, and conversation.

Designed Around Product Discovery

The concept centres on a product-testing counter, giving visitors a clear point of interaction and staff a place to introduce the range. Open approaches and clear sightlines connect the counter with surrounding displays, allowing customers to browse without interrupting the main interaction area.

A restrained material palette, textured surfaces and integrated lighting define the space and focus attention on the products. The curved overhead structure gives the concept a recognisable silhouette within the wider retail setting. Together, these decisions establish a visual and spatial direction for further design development.

Aesop retail concept visualisation showing a curved timber ceiling, suspended sculptural lighting and a rounded product-testing counter.
Aesop retail concept visualisation by MDS, showing an open corner entrance, curved illuminated canopy, product shelving and central testing counter.
Aesop retail concept visualisation showing an open entrance, integrated product displays and a curved illuminated canopy defining the space within the surrounding shopping environment.
Aesop retail concept visualisation showing an open entrance, integrated product displays and a curved illuminated canopy defining the space within the surrounding shopping environment.
Aesop retail concept visualisation showing a curved product display counter beneath suspended lighting, with illuminated shelving and space for browsing and customer consultation.
Aesop retail concept visualisation showing open circulation around a freestanding product-testing counter, with illuminated shelving, brand graphics and curved overhead lighting defining the space.
Aesop retail concept visualisation looking along the product-testing counter towards illuminated wall displays, with a curved timber ceiling and suspended lighting connecting the browsing and consultation areas.
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