The leading Japanese cosmetics company Kanebo Cosmetics has its new European headquarters in the booming district of Zurich-Oerlikon.

WSA supported Kanebo Cosmetics in preparing the layout studies and the rough cost estimate. In phase two, WSA planned and realised the office planning, interior design and interior fit-out together with Kanebo.

The result was a place of encounter. A place where “Shibui”, a Japanese word for simple aesthetics and unobtrusive beauty, is very clearly recognisable. Be it in the materialisation which is reminiscent of traditional Japanese architecture with its geometrical floor and wall structures, its use of natural materials, its color palette of earthy sand and delicate green tones. Or the structures in the carpet, which are reminiscent of Zen gardens and tatami mats, and an overall decision to use the subtlety of textures rather than a bold color scheme to create an elegant and harmonious atmosphere throughout.

The modern Tokyo Lounge and the four meeting rooms, which represent the four seasons – in Japanese “haru”, “natsu”, “aki” and “fuyu” – and are named after them, set the tone.

Thank you very much for allowing us to support Kanebo in realising a “piece of Japan” in Zurich for the second time.