Le Labo Kyoto Machiya by Jo Nagasaka + Schemata Architects is a nuanced exploration of architectural fusion, where the brand's distinct New York identity intertwines with the cultural and historical richness of Kyoto.
Situated in a 145-year-old machiya in Kiyamachi, this flagship store is a study in contrasts and cohesion, bringing together the raw, industrial aesthetics of Le Labo with the delicate, timeworn sensibilities of a traditional Japanese townhouse.
In designing this space, Schemata faced the challenge of preserving the architectural integrity of the machiya while embedding Le Labo’s identity into the very fabric of the building. This delicate balancing act required a thoughtful integration of Western and Japanese design elements. Decisions such as how to display products within a tatami room, or how to incorporate lighting into a space historically unacquainted with such fixtures, were pivotal in ensuring that the store resonated both with its local surroundings and the brand's global image.
The collaboration with Le Labo and Creative Director Deborah Royer led to a series of design interventions that carefully respected the machiya's traditional architecture while infusing it with modern touches. The use of antique Japanese furniture alongside vintage Western lighting, and the incorporation of traditional pigments like bengara and shoen, allowed the space to speak in a hybrid language—one that honors the past while embracing the present. Architectural elements such as countertops and staircases were meticulously crafted to blend seamlessly with the existing structure, ensuring that the machiya's essence was preserved.
Le Labo Kyoto Machiya is not merely a retail space; it is a carefully curated environment where the tactile qualities of the building echo the brand's ethos of craftsmanship and materiality. This project exemplifies how architecture can be a dialogue between different cultures, merging them into a cohesive narrative that respects tradition while pushing boundaries.
