Le Labo Transforms Hanok Into Contemporary Sensory Space

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Le Labo Bukchon Hanok, Le Labo’s newest lab – nestled among traditional hanok homes that once housed nobility – is a contemporary perfumery emerging not as an imposition upon history, but as its natural evolution. The space opens with an immediate sensory declaration, introducing raw stone carved into a washing basin, its rough-hewn surface inviting touch while framing the ritual of cleansing between fragrance explorations.

This Seoul outpost represents something more than contemporary design practice – it is a seamless integration of traditional Korean craft techniques with modern sensory methodology. The designers approached the historic hanok not as a museum piece to be preserved under glass, but as a living framework capable of supporting contemporary making. The original stonework remains untouched, its weathered surfaces providing textural counterpoint to newly installed wooden floors. These floors build on tradition, creating new patterns that speak in the same visual language while serving modern functions.

Glass bottles of perfume are arranged on a wooden table in front of a large window with a view of a traditional wooden courtyard and tree outside.

“The process of restoring this historic hanok has been a beautiful journey of finding a home in Seoul, one that is grounded in the profound harmony between traditional Korean design philosophy and our approach to artisanal fragrance. Our intention is for visitors to experience this lab as a sanctuary of the senses – embodying stillness, deep connection, and craftsmanship passed through generations,” explains Deborah Royer, Global Brand President & Creative Director of Le Labo Fragrances.

A minimalist shop interior with wooden beams, a dark wood counter displaying candles and bottles, glass shelving, and sunlight streaming through wooden lattice windows.

Hanji, Korea’s traditional mulberry paper, wraps shelving and walls, its fibrous texture softening harsh edges while maintaining the material honesty that characterizes both traditional Korean architecture and contemporary craft movements. Hand-dyed hemp, called sambe, creates intimate wall coverings that absorb sound and light. The fragrance organ room functions as both workshop and theater, where scent creation becomes visible performance. A custom wooden observation booth allows visitors to witness the hand-blending process.

Two wooden shelves hold neatly arranged bottles and jars of skincare products. A small potted plant sits on the right side of the top shelf. The background is light wood.

Minimalist shelving with decorative objects, books, ceramics, plants, and neutral tones, set against a yellow wall with exposed wooden ceiling beams above.

A minimal room with beige walls, a wooden window, two black round tables, and small potted plants placed on the bench and tables.

Traditional Korean hanok house courtyard with wooden doors, tiled roof, stone pathway, and small plants along the edges.

Traditional wooden double doors with metal rings and paper notices, beside a wooden lattice window, on a building with light-colored walls and stone steps.

Traditional wooden courtyard with tiled roof, wooden doors and windows, a curved tree in the center, and a small garden area.

Wooden double doors labeled "Le Labo" beside a large window with bamboo blinds, small green plants, and stone landscaping in front of a traditional-style building.

To learn more about Le Labo Bukchon Hanok in Seoul, visit lelabofragrances.com.

Photography courtesy of Le Labo.

Leo Lei translates his passion for minimalism into his daily-updated blog Leibal. In addition, you can find uniquely designed minimalist objects and furniture at the Leibal Store.



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