Kao’s workplace was conceived as a three-dimensional expression of Kirei – a clean, quietly beautiful life for people and planet. The brief was to translate this philosophy into an everyday experience, where brands, products and people could coexist in a calm, sensory landscape.

Arrival was to feel like entering the KAO experience: a showcase destination where visitors and colleagues could see, touch and trial products, and where campaigns and stories could unfold in a flexible event space.

Beyond this, a warm community heart was to provide a place to chat, share ideas, recharge and build culture. Around it, a bright field of focused worksettings was to offer choice – quieter zones for concentration, more energetic areas for collaboration – all softened with biophilia and natural light.

Across every setting, integrated technology was to keep colleagues connected, while subtle Japanese references and curated displays were to celebrate KAO’s heritage and diverse family of brands.