DESIGNRESEARCH &DEVELOPMENT
Creating
a beautiful future
through
experience design.
In 2016, on the 100th anniversary of Shiseido Creative, we launched the “Design, Research & Development” initiative. Under the theme of “Crafting New Beauty,” we aim to create a more beautiful future through life-changing experience design.
Creatives begin from the five senses, looking for unique insights and deep-diving into research to redefine the meaning of beauty and create new value.
-
CASE 1
BliScent
We developed a working prototype for a portable aroma diffuser, known as BliScent, which diffuses scents based on the user’s individual conditions.
Based on the insight we spend more time at home than ever before, we utilized Shiseido’s knowledge of fragrance to create a better home environment that matches with the user’s feelings.
2016
Masaki Hanahara, Yuka Nagasaki -
CASE 2
Lia
Lia is an AI beauty partner featured in Shiseido Smart Mirrors.
By accumulating personal data, including skin and mental data, Lia learns about the the user’s skin and mind to help optimize both and create a more beautiful future.
2017
Masaki Hanahara, Yuka Nagasaki -
CASE 3
SKIN
AWAKENING COTTONBy focusing on the senses of sight and touch, we created a unique cotton puff that provides a brand-new cosmetic experience.
2018
Misaki Nagatake -
CASE 4
HARMONIZINGSKINCARE
By linking cosmetics to the senses, we aimed to create an enriched experience for users.
We created a container/device that can change the temperature of its contents depending on outside temperature, humidity, and the user’s skin condition to deliver the ideal skincare.
In summer, it cools down the skin with a cold gel, and in winter, it warms the skin.
The packaging is designed to improve the sensory experience of skincare.
2018
Mao Komai, Misaki Nagatake -
CASE 5
PRIVATE AIR
We created a device to personalize the air we breathe by modifying the principles of e-cigarettes to surround the face with steam and fragrance.
The device works to calm and enhance concentration both physically and mentally, providing a personal space through subtle appearance and high functionality. Inspiration came from the Japanese garden where a rock is placed to create the private space in a subtle manner.
2018
Mao Komai -
CASE 6
AROMACHOLOGICBREATH
A new wellness experience. Fragrance is stored within a small diffuser which can enhance concentration, refresh the mind, alleviate stress, support alcohol abstinence, etc.
The user places the diffuser in their mouth and inhales the fragrance. By inhaling and exhaling, the fragrance circulates within the user’s body and in the space that surrounds them.
Marble was used due to its cool temperature and smooth feel. The device is also equipped with a valve to prevent over inhaling and a ridge to ensure proper use.
2018
Hiroshi Wakui -
CASE 7
CONCENTRATIONDEVICE
We aimed to create new meditation experience that helps users concentrate.
The device combines a propeller fan and fragrance diffuser. While watching the organic movements and breathing in the mild fragrance, users’ concentration levels are enhanced.
We pursued a beautiful shape and mesmerizing movement for the fan, the spiral shape of which becomes a piece of sculptural art.
2018
Akira Muraoka -
CASE 8
MY FUTUREPALETTE
Curiosity may be the key to a beautiful life, that’s why we developed a workshop for children to explore theirs.
Using AR, colorful balls with a job title written on each floated in the air. When children touched the balls, they popped to reveal a number of words associated with the job.
Children then pick the words that interest them, and in time, create a unique palette that imagines their future.
This project was designed to help children think about their future and inspire them to stay curious. It won the Kids Design Award in 2021.
2019
Daisuke Takada