Aesop Nyuuman Shinjuku is a minimalist space located in Tokyo, Japan, designed by Torafu Architects. In order to create an independent and visually striking space, the architects proposed to use limestone as the main material, which has a presence within any environment. This pale, tactile material is used for flooring, pillars, and fixtures, which appear to be sculpted from a single mass. The joints are set in a three-dimensional grid, framing the 108 pieces of limestone in an exacting manner. A large sink unit is combined with a pillar that provides tiered display shelving; the limestone’s subtle hues are contrasted by Aesop’s amber containers.

Photography by Takumi Ota