Living Beauty Retail Shop by Odami – A Modern Apothecary Experience in Toronto

Toronto's vibrant Christie Pits neighborhood, Living Beauty Retail Shop, designed by Odami, transforms the traditional apothecary into a contemporary luxury beauty experience. Spanning 2,500 ft², the space offers an intimate, personalized one-to-one interaction for every visitor, blending historic design references with modern functionality.

Historically, apothecaries were defined by dark wood, intricate detailing, and countless small drawers, offering both curiosity and care through intimate consultations. Odami reimagines this typology with a fresh, luxury retail interior design, establishing a distinctive brand identity for Living Beauty.

At the heart of the store lies a grand wraparound bar, designed as a social hub, complemented by streamlined Corian display tables. Perimeter product bays, subtly arched and equipped with abundant drawer storage, provide both practical functionality and a visually compelling rhythm. Drawing inspiration from traditional apothecaries, these alcoves embrace a contemporary material palette, including powder-coated steel shelving, modular systems, and straightforward fabrication techniques.

Departing from dark wood tones, the clay-toned millwork serves as a light, neutral backdrop that highlights diverse products and branding. Breccia Oniciata marble anchors each bay as a luxurious service counter, while rounded tambour paneling introduces a rhythmic geometric texture. Complementing these forms, a concentric terracotta-toned porcelain tile floor guides visitors through the store, forming a strong visual pathway toward the spa and treatment areas.

The Living Beauty spa, visible through fluted glass windows, echoes the retail design while offering a distinct experience of calm and relaxation. A playful, intimate reception transitions guests from the dynamic store environment into the serene spa. Individual treatment rooms are crafted around a high-gloss mint-toned cube, reflective surfaces, vintage sconces, and cove lighting, creating a luminous, refreshing atmosphere that contrasts the store’s warm tones.

Through this thoughtful reinterpretation of a historic apothecary, Living Beauty Retail Shop merges luxury retail design, modern interiors, and experiential spatial planning, celebrating the past while embracing a forward-thinking, contemporary approach.

Project Details:

• Location: Toronto, Canada
• Architects: Odami
• Area: 2,500 ft²
• Year: 2025
• Photography: John Alunan
• Manufacturers: Centura, Farrow & Ball, Knoll Textiles, Kohler, Marble, Octopus

All Photographs are works of John Alunan