IAA was tasked with designing Blend's flagship store in Overland Park, KS. Specializing in aromatherapy and relaxation products, the Blend experience focuses on the health and wellness of its customers. Our team was challenged to communicate this, both visually and functionally. Furthering the challenge and in order to meet the targeted grand opening date, IAA would need to begin schematic design as Blend’s business and merchandising strategies evolved.
As the design evolved, our team narrowed down options based on three guiding themes - the nautilus shell, yin and yang and oil and water. Following renovations and inline with the owner's vision, Blend is now a place of peace, relaxation, and rejuvenation. To achieve those three states of being, one must find balance – yin and yang. As a boutique which crafts custom scents for its guests, and infuses soaps, candles, lotions, and perfumes with them, achieving a harmonious blend is critical. Aesthetically and functionally, our team sought those same ideals. Guests move through the space as fluid, white forms articulating displays and the central mixing station quietly flow into rich hardwood floors and angular displays on the west wall. At the center of it all is a sprouting Chinese Tallow tree, used throughout history for its restorative and healing powers. Soothing features, and the careful combination of divergent elements subtly inform patrons about the store’s philosophy, while achieving the tranquil balance that encourages them to pursue peace of mind, body, and soul.
