Essity
Beauty store - Wellington International Airport
Between the check in counters and main terminal concourse/departure lounges of Wellington International Airport, rich colours and textures of a full height glass and timber wall define Essity. Like a beautiful evening gown, the glass wall appears to dance and float along the passage with its structured layering.
Showcasing predominantly New Zealand skin care products the clients brief called for a design that catered for not only high-end commodities but also for everyday travel essentials. The practical yet elegant timber shelves juxtaposed with an extravagant glass wall blur the lines between price brackets, and where one can indulge in a beautifully packaged skincare range, or a box of tissues or a toothbrush can be grabbed before jetting off.
Inspired by rich tones in the pages of a glossy magazine, materials were chosen that are complementary and sit harmoniously with the essence of the products. Elements in the fit out are clean and sophisticated and lighting and materials add to the warm atmosphere where customers are welcome to test and try. The decision to steer away from typical retail lighting that works on exposing flaws was forgone for a moodily lit resolution that was kinder on the skin. Recessed ceiling troughs lined in brass contain ordered spots, enabling a broad compass to light the expanse of shelving.
Graphics on the far wall reaffirm the branding of the store, where a contemporary take on botanical drawings create a velvety backdrop to silky crisp lines of the joinery elements.
2009 'Personal Division Winner'- Retail Design Awards
