Fenn Design Philosophy

Design is everything. It’s the distillation of our thoughts into reality.

Design is something that we prioritise and understand as being a reflection of our approach more broadly. There is a necessary timelessness in creating a skincare brand. Not timelessness which resists age, but one which ages beautifully and confidently. This, afterall, is one of our core beliefs and missions for our clients. Everything we design should champion this too - from our logo to our premises.

We were fortunate to connect with Akin Atelier, wonderful architects responsible for some of Sydney’s most well loved hospitality and retail venues. For us, Akin represented the optimal balance of experimental spirit, classic style and proven experience. It has been among the best decisions we have made to date - Kelvin, Stacey and the team are truly talented people.

Our brief to Akin began by saying... “Beautiful spaces lift the soul and make the heart race...”

The initial experience is a retail environment. Akin created a calm palate of warm tones and generous lighting to present the selection of brands which Fenn curates. There is a subtle efficiency to the entire space - everything is designed and manufactured precisely for it's purpose. You will not notice any fixings, any bolts or any hinges. It is deliberate, considered and elegant.

Beyond the retail space and point of sale is a lounge area for clients to relax prior to - or following – their Fenn treatment.  The room is designed to translate as a relaxed lounge with a residential tone. Here, we chat with clients about their skincare and health goals and ensure that we can work together to create a sustainable and successful approach to wellness.

Should customers like to try any of the products in-store, a cylindrical masonry basin is positioned in front of a glass-block window looking out to a courtyard, framed by large eucalyptus trees.

The design intent expresses honesty in materiality & simplicity in form to reflect the Fenn values. Stainless steel is used in it’s honest, milled sheet form for custom shelving and point of sale desk. Like skin, stainless has a sort of ‘teenage’ phase where it gets a little scratched before a beautiful patina forms and it really shines.

Cork is used throughout to bring a softness and tactility to the space. Along with the marmoleum, both materials champion sustainability and bring a warmth of natural fibres to the space.

Paint is combined with sand and applied by a thick brush to give a relaxed, warm and textured feel to the space. Working with the Italian painters to achieve this beautiful look was a highlight.

Moving beyond the retail and decompression level, clients move downstairs to experience a calm and focused vibe of desaturated materials and matte finishes.

The first treatment space is exposed to beautiful afternoon light which filters through glass brick windows and draped sheers to create a play of light in the room. The team selected a light colour palate for this room, resulting in a unique material experience which changes with the light throughout the day.