Sustainable Wood Design: Aesop Thonglor Retail Store by Sher Maker in Thailand

Aesop Thonglor retail store uses sustainable wood design in Thailand.

Contents

Project Background: Recovering and Recycling Wood as a Local Tradition

The architectural design of Aesop Thonglor is deeply rooted in the local culture of Thailand. The brand Aesop’s philosophy aligns with the local custom of recovering or recycling wood when constructing homes. This harmony of design and local practice is evident in the store’s design, which embraces sustainable wood design and construction techniques. The concept of sustainable wood design and craftsmanship reflects the local context of wood recycling in Thailand, which is an excellent example of sustainable wood design and craftsmanship. Sher Maker, a local architectural firm based in Chiang Mai, played a pivotal role in the project, leveraging its expertise to explore various types of on-site wood materials and finding ways to utilize recycled wood. This project represents a strong sense of social mission for the local architects in Thailand, who are dedicated to finding ways to enhance the local wood culture. The sustainable wood design approach was instrumental in achieving a unique, and authentic aesthetic. The sustainable wood design and architecture are the driving force behind the success of this project.

Design Concept: Resonance of Local Culture and Aesop Philosophy

Sher Maker’s design philosophy resonated with Aesop’s brand values. Together, they meticulously crafted the Aesop store located in Bangkok’s Thonglor district, a neighborhood that showcases a blend of the city’s old and new cultures. The choice of Thonglor highlights Aesop’s commitment to finding locations that not only offer accessibility for customers but also provide opportunities for discovery and cultural renewal. The store’s design seamlessly blends the contemporary and historical, creating a unique and captivating environment for visitors. The brand Aesop’s choice of location was never random, as the Thonglor district in Bangkok offers convenient access for customers. It further emphasizes the potential to explore and promote local culture through architecture and design. This reflects the brand’s dedication to local communities and its philosophy of respecting the history and culture of each location. This is a clear example of design and sustainability, and it is a significant contribution to the development of sustainable wood design and craftsmanship.

Material Exploration: Sustainable Wood Material Selection and Application

The design team was drawn to the existing teak flooring during the site selection process. This teak wood became a central feature of the store’s aesthetic, creating a timber pavilion that invites a sensual experience and reflects the limitations of local raw materials. The use of locally sourced and reclaimed wood signifies a strong dedication to sustainable wood design and environmentally responsible practices. They understood the limitations of local raw materials in Thailand, leading them to explore sustainable material applications for their projects. The scarcity of wood and the limitations of the local wood market are evident in this project. The design team’s approach has become a model for other projects in the region and beyond. The architectural design seeks to not only continue traditional design language but also to revive rural architecture. The teak wood, a sustainable wood design, is used for shelves, structural frames, and façade partitions, and it also plays a vital role in the central sink in the main area. The use of the traditional teak wood in the construction of Aesop’s Thonglor is an excellent example of sustainable wood design. They are a testament to the project’s emphasis on the use of recycled and sustainable wood.

Interior Design and Details: Celebrating Craftsmanship and Promoting Human Connection

The central sink, a central element in every Aesop store, was created with Thai granite, inspired by kraba-din (local villages’ earthen fire pit). The sink acts as the heart of the shop, promoting a personalized skin-cleansing experience. On the left side of the retail space is the ‘fa lai’ room, a dedicated sensory area for the perfume collection. The vertical wood slats that create the walls reflect traditional local building practices. This space is an ode to the local carpenters and craftsmanship. The wooden slats that create the walls create a unique shadow effect due to the gaps. The design celebrates the craftsmanship and pays attention to every detail. Sustainable wood design is also incorporated into the construction of the walls. The construction demonstrates the craftsmanship of the local carpenters. The use of sustainable wood in this design and craftmanship is exceptional. Sher Maker’s primary goal was to blend aesthetics and functionality. They created a warming tea oven in the main hall, drawing inspiration from traditional Thai countryside kitchens. The warmth of the oven is a symbol of human connection and community, and it encourages a mindful approach to life, reminding us to cherish the present moment. This is another example of a design that integrates both form and function. The sustainable wood design and craftmanship are the driving force behind the success of the project.