Located within Beijing’s Wangfujing shopping district, Aesop’s new sanctuary of silk and stone marks the brand’s debut in China’s capital.
Wangfujing, meaning ‘princely mansion well’, is a name that reflects the district’s rich history and tradition. Beijing’s vibrant shopping strip is renowned for its diverse mix of retail stores, water wells and royal attractions, and it is within its historic confines that Aesop’s latest store finds its home.
WF CENTRAL House 19 marks Aesop’s launch in the Chinese capital, designed in collaboration with Chinese architecture and interior design practice atelier suasua. True to their philosophy, the brand’s design harmoniously integrates the unique beauty of the local surroundings into the architecture and interior, capturing the essence of Wangfujing’s past and present within a sanctuary of silk and stone.
The store is housed within a traditional Chinese courtyard residence, known as a siheyuan. The layout consists of four ‘houses’ surrounding a 16-square-metre quadrangular courtyard, with each house connected by wide concrete pathways and lush greenery.
The exterior design of House 19 honours the historical architecture of the residences once owned by a cousin of the last Qing emperor, Puyi. These homes are characterised by their symmetrical mouldings, curved roofs and ornate columns. Inside, the design contrasts with the exterior, featuring contemporary elements such as stainless steel tapware and black-and-grey tiles—colours uncommon in imperial China, which favoured lighter hues like red, green and yellow. Classical Ming dynasty furniture is also interspersed throughout, celebrated for its simple, elegant lines.
Aesop’s new store in Beijing is rooted in history and tradition. House 19 harnesses the traditional structure of residences once owned by a cousin of the Qing dynasty’s last emperor, Puyi.
The two ‘Fragrance Armoires’ house Aesop’s Eaux de Parfum.
Aesop’s displays are set within teak structures, inspired by the classic step-beds of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Hidden within each alcove is a red copper sink, revealed only when stepping inside.
Upon passing through the arched entry gateway, the eye is drawn to the expansive courtyard, shaded by a three-metre-wide pergola made of waterproof canvas and crimson xiangyunsha tea silk. This intricate fabric, crafted through a complex natural dyeing process, has roots dating back to the Ming dynasty. The courtyard’s design echoes the ancient practice of creating shaded, communal spaces for respite from the summer heat. ‘Goldfish baths’, serving as water wells, are placed alongside long glazed-tile benches. This outdoor space sets the stage for a serene interplay of light and breeze, enveloping the store in an intimate, tranquil atmosphere.
The main house is distinguished by its tall, panelled ceilings and wooden rafters, reminiscent of siheyuan architecture, which emphasises natural light and airflow. This is further enhanced by the intricate wooden latticework windows, which allow for continuous ventilation. Within this space, Aesop’s full range is displayed in large teak structures inspired by ancient Chinese step-beds—carved wooden beds with multiple steps leading to the mattresses—common during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Adjacent to the main structure, the eastern house has been transformed into a ‘Sensorium’, a space designed for exploring the olfactory senses through the two infusion chambers. The western house contains an ensuite, where in-depth consultations take place within the step-bed structures. Red copper basins are paired with bamboo-head curtains, providing both privacy and a sense of serenity during the experience.
Aesop’s WF CENTRAL House 19 is a space steeped in architectural significance, embodying the brand’s commitment to refined quality and holistic experiences. In celebrating Beijing’s rich cultural heritage, the store blends tradition and innovation, standing as a lasting testament to Aesop’s approach to creating spaces that are both timeless and meaningful.
The Wangfujing area is known for its water wells, and several recycled stone troughs, reminiscent of traditional ‘goldfish basins’, are placed throughout the store’s courtyard, inviting guests to explore Aesop’s skincare products.
The outdoor space draws inspiration from the ancient tradition of creating shaded, communal areas designed to offer respite from the summer heat. Spanning 16 square meters and enveloped by a three-meter-wide, ring-shaped pergola, guests are invited to freely wander between the four individual houses.
A pair of long benches crafted from glazed tiles frame the courtyard, inviting guests to enjoy the store’s tea station for a moment of quiet reflection and refreshment.
