Takashimaya
New York City
MR Architecture & Decor

Earth Tones Warm Takashimaya's Beauty Spa

© Susannah Shepherd

For more photos click on 'photos & drawings' above. To see the people and products behind this project click on 'people & products.'

The sixth floor beauty and cosmetic department of this famous Japanese department store on Fifth Avenue in New York has been designed as a luxurious spa--embodying a serene and calming atmosphere in one of the busiest retail districts in the world. The overall character of the floor is vaguely Japanese, with a palette of muted green and gray colors and raw, natural materials.

An opening between this and lower floors was created in the center of the space, visually linking this floor with lower floors. Around this opening is a concrete textured floor resembling a Japanese sand garden. A railing around the opening is made of bronzed twigs, inhabited by an actual bird's nest and gold leaf butterflies. Long banquettes of kidskin leather line both sides of the opening, laden with loose pillows of silk and velvet. The walls hold display shelving clad in frosted mirrored glass that creates a reflected glow around the products. The Fifth Avenue side has a 'val verde' limestone floor with concrete inserts impressed with tatami mat texture.

The walls on this side are lined with large display shelves with removable product trays, two bronze and glass showcases, and a long gray stained wood showcase etched with smoked glass tray tops. Three square tables with stools and mirrors are placed centrally for private consultation. The rear of the floor is the treatment area and features more display, consultation tables, a long trough sink, two treatment rooms, dressing room, storage, and restroom.

Formal name of building:
Takashimaya New York

Location:
New York City

Gross square footage:
3,800 sq. ft.

Owner:
Takashimaya New York

Architect's firm:
MR Architecture & Decor
150 W28th St, Suite 1102
New York, New York, 10001
Ph (212) 989-9300
Fx (212) 989-9430