Le Labo, born in Grasse and raised in New York, has opened its latest store, Gathering Fragrance Lab (集雅香氛实验室), on Wukang Road in Shanghai. This marks the brand’s fourth store in the city. In its third year of expanding into mainland China, Le Labo has taken a new approach with this store, opening its first-ever street-level boutique in China to become a neighbor to the locals on Wukang Road.
The Gathering Fragrance Lab preserves the original wooden structure of the building and incorporates wabi-sabi aesthetics, showcasing the beauty of time’s passage. Unlike other stores, most of the furniture here is sourced from China, including Chinese-style money cabinets and floor screens, which add an oriental touch. A calligraphy piece by the window reads “适意” (Shiyi), a Shanghainese expression meaning “comfortable” or “satisfied.” Le Labo has captured the essence of this local phrase, perfectly reflecting the atmosphere of both Wukang Road and the boutique.
The garden behind the boutique further embodies the idea of “适意.” With lush foliage, dappled sunlight, and a long wooden table, it connects Le Labo with the local Café Gathering. Customers can enjoy a cup of coffee in the tranquil garden after visiting the store.
Though newly opened, the Gathering Fragrance Lab blends seamlessly into Wukang Road, feeling like it’s been part of the neighborhood for years. For Le Labo, the street-level boutique embodies the brand’s original vision, allowing it to integrate into the daily lives of the public while staying true to itself. The store respects the building’s structure and the street’s vibe, balancing brand aesthetics with local culture.
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