Buff Concept Store

GRAS has artfully combined Scottish Ash, locally-made concrete, and stainless steel to craft the serene interior of buff—a design-led manicure studio nestled within Edinburgh's vibrant urban landscape.

Drawing from ethically sourced timber, carefully selected to minimise ecological impact, layered with contemporary elements, the project seeks to infuse the Victorian stone arched interior with renewed atmosphere, resulting in an immersive, sensory-rich sanctuary. Every facet of the design, from material selection to joinery craftsmanship, embodies a steadfast commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Against the looming threat of ash dieback disease, wrought by the fungus Hymenoscyphus fraxineus and poised to decimate up to 75% of Scotland's Ash trees, this project serves as a poignant call to action, highlighting the urgent need to confront ecological challenges within the design industry. Through deliberate material choices, GRAS advocates for responsible sourcing practices, recognising their socio-economic implications on a micro-local scale.

Through close collaboration with Edinburgh-based designer and maker, Daniel Brophy, each piece of joinery upholds the principles of integrity and sustainability. The ethical considerations inherent in material selection are intricately woven into the fabric of the design process. GRAS's focus of sustainably harvested Scottish Ash underscores dedication to preserving ecosystem integrity and supporting local communities. By investing in materials that are not only environmentally sound but also socially responsible, the project aims to uphold ethical standards while fostering spaces that inspire and uplift.

In the delicate interplay between aesthetics and ethics, GRAS strikes a harmonious chord, where design innovation harmonises with environmental consciousness. buff stands as a testament to the transformative potential of sustainable design, dispelling the notion that beauty and sustainability are mutually exclusive. Through mindful consideration of ecological impact and ethical sourcing, this modest design intervention charts a course toward a more sustainable future in commercial interiors.