Alibaba’s ‘new retail’ chain of stores continues to set itself apart in customer experience with the addition of Xurface, Beautyfarm’s cutting-edge spa concept. Located in Shanghai, Hema, Xurface caters to young professionals short on time and in need of quick treatments when they go grocery shopping after work.
To match the future-forward concept of the spa and supermarket, the design settled upon was decidedly sleek, transparent, and interconnected. Perimeter walls made of laminate and plasterboard in skin-toned hues were ‘drenched’ with polished polycarbonate emulating a hydrating sheet mask. Treatment areas are divided using curtains to maximize the small pace and allow flexible use depending on client needs. The main balance sought by the design was to create an uber-comforting space that was relaxing yet fast, and private yet open. Indirect lighting and soothing colors create a Zen environment that invites weary shoppers to immerse themselves in their surroundings and feel mentally refreshed.
