“Kime (Skin Texture)”

At the onset of the global pandemic, we received a remote design request from Shanghai to launch a new cosmetics brand. While the project involved curating both original and existing products, it became a rare opportunity to lead with spatial design in parallel with product development and service planning. The first concept we envisioned was “kime” (skin texture). Since cosmetic products are small and tend to have a limited spatial presence, we aimed not only to highlight the products but also to give texture to the space itself. Kime refers to a finely ordered condition, not only at the surface but also through layered depth. We introduced a surface composed of diagonal lines intersecting horizontal lines, then layered them. Using 10mm-wide laser-cut steel plates, the space forms a permeable volume that changes depending on the viewing angle—a “space where kime can be felt.” This idea relates to our previous work “MEMENTO,” presented at Milan Salone. While spatial design often requires rationality, we sought to evoke images and memories beyond function. We believe space should also appeal to emotion, and by expressing what is not visible, space itself begins to speak as an ultimate presence. Following the spatial design, we developed the graphic design. Inspired by the “lines of kime,” the designer proposed a logo based on compatibility with the spatial materials, evolving into a lips motif—an abstract yet intuitive expression. The logo was placed as a luminous sign on a permeable external screen. The layout uses structural columns to organize circulation into subdivided spaces. Different textures are applied between areas with natural light and those facing interior common spaces. The cosmetics area is set in grey, while the salon area is beige. Walls function as display shelving, island fixtures incorporate touch-up functions, and counters allow for consultation. Rounded detailing is applied to elements that come into contact with the body, expressing a tactile sense of fine texture.