Aesop Las Salesas
Designed by Ciszak Dalmas and Matteo Ferrari, is a refined blend of tradition and innovation, set in Madrid’s historic Las Salesas district near the iconic Palacio Longoria. As the second Aesop store in the city by the same design team, it offers a distinct interpretation of the brand while staying rooted in the local architectural language.
The design draws heavily on Spanish Modernism, most notably through the use of Trencadís, a traditional mosaic technique reimagined in a sculptural, contemporary form. Once used to decorate irregular surfaces, it now defines sweeping architectural elements within the store, transforming fragments of ceramic into a unified, textured landscape that speaks to both craft and innovation.
Material choices play a central role in shaping the experience. Catedral glass interacts dynamically with natural light to create shifting atmospheres throughout the day, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. Locally sourced Silvestre Granito and Alpi Walnut Burl wood add warmth and tactility, grounding the space in natural tones and textures while subtly referencing Madrid’s material heritage.
At the heart of the spatial composition is a transparent, floating portico. This architectural gesture blurs the lines between retail and operational zones, encouraging a layered and intuitive journey through the store. It acts as both threshold and focal point, inviting exploration and offering glimpses into the behind-the-scenes rituals that define Aesop’s customer experience.
The store layout encourages fluid movement and ease of navigation, fostering a sense of openness that enhances both accessibility and engagement. Thoughtfully framed product displays and seating areas create moments of quiet interaction, supporting a slower, more considered retail experience.
Aesop Las Salesas stands as a thoughtful response to its context—one that honors Madrid’s cultural identity while embracing a forward-looking design ethos. By merging heritage techniques with a modern, human-centred approach, the store becomes more than just a point of sale: it is a space of connection, discovery, and enduring craft.
