Le Labo's Daikanyama store, the brand's pioneering location outside the United States, has undergone its first extensive refurbishment in 18 years. This significant renovation, spearheaded by Schemata Architects and Jo Nagasaka, was driven by a core objective: to integrate the intricate process of fresh fragrance blending more prominently into the store's physical environment. Simultaneously, the design sought to ensure the boutique's aesthetic resonated with and seamlessly enhanced the distinctive Tokyo streetscape it inhabits. This project underscores a careful balance between showcasing artisanal craft and maintaining a strong sense of place, creating a unique retail experience.
The collaborative effort between Schemata Architects and Jo Nagasaka on the Le Labo Daikanyama renovation represents a thoughtful reinterpretation of the brand's identity within a pivotal retail space. By placing the craft of fragrance creation at the forefront of the spatial design, the architects have not only revitalized an established location but also deepened its connection to both the brand's ethos and its urban surroundings. The 115 square meter space, completed in 2025, reflects a contemporary approach to retail that values transparency, engagement, and a harmonious relationship with its cultural context in Shibuya, Japan.
Reimagining the Fragrance Experience
The recent renovation of Le Labo's Daikanyama boutique, a collaborative project by Schemata Architects and Jo Nagasaka, fundamentally redefines the customer interaction with fragrance. This update, the first in 18 years for the brand's inaugural international location, aimed to bring the artisanal process of scent creation to the forefront of the retail experience. The design consciously integrates the craft of fresh fragrance blending into the physical space, fostering a transparent and engaging environment where customers can witness and appreciate the meticulous work involved. This approach elevates the act of purchasing a fragrance from a simple transaction to an immersive journey, emphasizing the unique, hand-blended nature of each product. The architectural vision ensures that the store, while showcasing a global brand, remains deeply connected to its Tokyo setting.
At the heart of the Le Labo Daikanyama renovation lies a dedication to celebrating the artistry behind each fragrance. The refreshed interior, a testament to the combined creative efforts of Schemata Architects and Jo Nagasaka, provides a stage for the brand's commitment to fresh blending. Every element of the design, from the layout of the display areas to the materials chosen, contributes to a narrative that highlights authenticity and craftsmanship. This thoughtful integration of production into the retail environment allows visitors to observe the perfumers at work, creating a sense of connection and understanding that goes beyond the typical commercial exchange. The architects successfully transformed the 115 square meter space into a vibrant hub where tradition meets modern retail, perfectly balancing Le Labo's distinct identity with the dynamic urban fabric of Tokyo.
Integrating into Tokyo's Urban Fabric
The redesign of Le Labo Daikanyama by Schemata Architects and Jo Nagasaka placed significant emphasis on ensuring the boutique’s seamless integration into the vibrant Tokyo streetscape. Recognizing Daikanyama's unique character, the architects meticulously crafted an aesthetic that respects and complements the local environment, moving beyond a standard retail interior. This careful consideration for the surrounding urban context is evident in the choice of materials, the store's visual openness, and its overall architectural language, allowing the 115 square meter space to feel like an organic extension of Shibuya rather than a foreign insertion.
Beyond merely updating the interior, the collaboration between Schemata Architects and Jo Nagasaka sought to establish a dialogue between the Le Labo brand and the distinctive charm of Daikanyama. The renovation ensures that the storefront and interior elements harmoniously coexist with the neighborhood's architectural style and pedestrian flow. The result is a retail space that feels both contemporary and deeply rooted, offering visitors a unique sensory experience that is enhanced by its connection to the cultural and visual landscape of Tokyo. This strategic integration not only elevates the store's appeal but also reinforces Le Labo's commitment to creating bespoke experiences that are as much about location as they are about product.