INDEX offers a more dimensional view of the design landscape across Asia by introducing design studios and companies that demonstrate clear design philosophies and notable achievements. Spanning graphic design, branding, spatial design, product, digital, and motion, INDEX focuses on emerging practices and looks beyond portfolios to examine how they work, where their ideas come from, and what they stand for. Rather than cataloguing projects, INDEX documents the design language and attitudes shaped by local identity, industry, and cultural environments across Asia.
“AIM Architecture, Schemata Architects, and WGNB represent the evolution of spatial design in Asia, where physical environments are utilized as strategic business solutions rather than purely aesthetic structures. In China, AIM Architecture drives retail innovation, transforming traditional commercial spaces into striking, narrative driven destinations that dictate market trends. In Japan, Jo Nagasaka of Schemata Architects strips away the unnecessary, creating highly functional retail spaces that directly enhance brand value and operational efficiency. In South Korea, WGNB approaches interior architecture as a comprehensive brand experience, translating complex corporate identities into highly immersive and commercially successful physical environments. Together, these studios demonstrate how spatial design serves as a powerful catalyst for business growth and consumer engagement.”
China
Studio: AIM Architecture
URL: https://www.aim-architecture.com
Profile: AIM Architecture is a Shanghai based architecture and interior design studio founded by Wendy Saunders and Vincent de Graaf. Recognized as pioneers in innovative retail and commercial design across China, the studio operates with a highly business centric mindset. They are renowned for their transformative work with disruptive brands like HARMAY, turning the traditional retail model into a highly engaging, warehouse style consumer journey. By blending rigorous architectural thinking with a deep understanding of modern consumer behavior, AIM Architecture designs spatial solutions that directly drive foot traffic, engagement, and massive commercial growth.
Japan
Studio: Schemata Architects
Profile: Schemata Architects is a Tokyo based architecture and spatial design practice founded by Jo Nagasaka. Operating on a deeply analytical approach, the studio creates commercial environments that function as highly effective business solutions. Known globally for shaping the spatial identity of brands like Blue Bottle Coffee, Nagasaka subtracts unnecessary elements to reveal the essential function of a space. This subtractive design philosophy not only creates striking minimalist aesthetics but also optimizes operational efficiency and user flow, proving that intelligent spatial planning is a fundamental driver of retail success.
South Korea
Studio: WGNB
Profile: WGNB is a Seoul based spatial design studio founded by Jonghwan Baek. Functioning as a strategic partner for major retail and fashion brands, the studio excels in translating abstract brand narratives into highly tangible and commercially impactful physical spaces. They view interior architecture as a three dimensional business tool that shapes consumer behavior and brand perception. By seamlessly integrating bold spatial geometry with refined material palettes, WGNB creates immersive brand experiences for clients like Juun.J and Musinsa, demonstrating the immense commercial power of meticulously planned spatial design.
#14057, 905 49, Beolmal-ro 102beon-gil,
Dongan-gu, Anyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
Business Registration Number: 454-86-01044
Online Sales License No.: 2021-Anyang Dongan-1081
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