Introducing Melixir House

Melixir House is where our products come to life and where our team works. With a focus on the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of our customers, Melixir embarked on a journey to bring clean, sustainable products to them. The Melixir House marks the beginning of that journey.

We asked Yerin and Koeun, two of the creators behind Melixir House, to share their insights.

 

 

Q: Hi Yerin and Koeun! What kind of place is the Melixir House?

Yerin: The Melixir House is both our office and the space where our products are developed. It was designed with the idea of creating a stress-free environment where the team can focus on their work. This space enhances individual performance and fosters a unique synergy between different roles, ultimately leading to the creation of high-quality products.

Koeun: I believe creativity thrives when people are relaxed and comfortable. I wanted to create a space that feels like home, where people feel at ease, stimulating both creativity and immersion in their work.

 

Q: What sets the Melixir House apart from regular office spaces?

Yerin: One of the standout features of the House, despite its relatively small size, is its flexible, open design. Unlike traditional offices that have clearly defined areas, the Melixir House is a multi-purpose space. You can have meetings in the kitchen or turn the lounge into a content studio. Originally, the space was a café, but instead of drastic renovations, we incorporated Melixir’s mission and values into the design. For instance, rather than redoing the floors, which would generate waste, we chose to use carpets.

Koeun: You feel the difference the moment you enter and take off your shoes. Walking barefoot on the carpet creates a sense of comfort. Our meetings, which used to be formal and focused on the monitor, are now more relaxed, held around low tables. Initially, some team members were skeptical about the idea of having carpets in an office, but walking barefoot has made people feel more at ease.

 

Q: What was the most important factor to consider when designing the “Melixir House”? 

Yerin:I named this new space “Melixir House,” because I wanted it to contain the idea of "home" since it is the first of many spaces that Melixir will go on to create. Since I wanted the space to foster the culture and essence of Melixir, I thought of the word “house.” Even though the words ‘home’ and ‘house’ are commonly used today, I didn’t want it to be a house in name only. I wanted it to embody the characteristics of a house, allowing people to be able to use things freely and live comfortably inside. This is why every aspect of the Melixir House resembles an actual home since it was intended to provide the same sense of familiarity and comfort you’d find in your own home.  

Koeun: I thought it would be good if the space aligned with Melixir’s brand image, so I designed the space with that in mind. As it is where our team spends their time, the space should be able to facilitate a better understanding of the brand, whether it's its aesthetics or its message. Therefore, I decided to avoid having the furniture, sofas, floors, or anything else go against Melixir's image so when visitors come by, they are able to interact with our brand’s core identity and message on a more personal level. 

Yerin:This is also why, aside from the carpets, I tried to use materials that brought about a more earthy vibe, such as wooden furniture, paper blinds, and the appropriate lighting. I think this helped bring about a space that not only aligns with the brand image but also the brand’s message.

 

Q: What was the most important factor when designing the Melixir House?

Yerin: I named it "Melixir House" because I wanted to evoke the sense of "home." I didn’t want it to just be a house in name, but a space that feels like home, where people can use it freely and comfortably. Every detail was designed to reflect that, with elements that create familiarity and comfort, just like your own home.

Koeun: I wanted the space to align with Melixir’s brand image, both in its aesthetics and its message. The furniture, sofas, and floors all reflect Melixir’s identity. When visitors come, they can experience the core of our brand in a personal, tangible way.

Yerin: That’s why, in addition to the carpets, we used earthy materials like wooden furniture, paper blinds, and soft lighting. This created a space that aligns with both the brand's image and message.

 

Q: What kind of space do you want the Melixir House to be for the team?

Koeun: First, I want it to be an "immersive space" where people can both rest and focus, maximizing productivity. Second, I want it to be a space that our team takes pride in—a place they can showcase to others as a reflection of Melixir's unique culture. Finally, I want it to be a space the team looks forward to coming to every day.

Yerin: I hope this space helps relieve stress during tough times. It’s designed so everyone can take breaks in their preferred way—whether that’s resting in a private area, walking in Dosan Park, or lying on the sofa. I even surveyed the team on what they like to do after work, and based on their responses, I aimed to create a space that feels like home, where they can watch Netflix, read, or simply relax.

 

 

Q: “Work-from-home Friday” is part of Melixir’s culture. What’s the difference between working from home and working at the Melixir House?

Koeun: The biggest difference is not having to commute! (laughs) But ever since we moved to the Melixir House, I often find myself going in on Friday afternoons after working from home in the morning because the space has everything I need. However, working from home allows me to reflect and develop ideas without distractions.

Yerin: On Fridays, I take my dog Ricky to work at cafes. It’s nice to get some work done while also taking care of personal tasks that I wouldn’t have time for in the office.

Q: In the last interview, you described Melixir House as a “mindful space.” Which area do you find most mindful?

Yerin: The kitchen, with its low table and sofa, feels the most "mindful" to me. It’s separated from the workspace by a curtain, and everything is soft and comfortable. Our Marketing Manager, Rahee, who usually works at a desk, said she enjoys working in the kitchen because it allows her to relax while staying focused.

Koeun: I agree—the kitchen is the most mindful spot. I arrive early and enjoy coffee there with Dani, my coffee buddy. It’s a calming way to start the day. Sometimes, I sit on the sofa, read, and feel grateful that Melixir prioritizes our mental well-being. The kitchen also allows for informal team interactions, making idea exchanges more fluid.

Yerin: It’s also where we test new products. The team can try them out in real-time and share feedback, which helps in the development process. Plus, it’s become a popular spot lately because of the new snacks! (laughs)

 

 

Q: How has your behavior changed since working at the Melixir House?

Koeun: Since this space became our own, I’ve become more mindful and health-conscious. As a designer, I used to feel creatively drained, but being in this space, which truly feels like "ours," has revitalized my creativity and solidified our brand identity.

Yerin: For me, the process of generating ideas has become faster and more efficient. At our old office, I was confined to my desk, but now I can physically test ideas and see what works. For instance, I recently worked on a store layout for Sephora and found it much easier to brainstorm and test ideas in this space.

 

 

Q: In the future, what do you hope the Melixir House will become?

Yerin: Right now, only our team enjoys the space, but in the future, I’d love to invite customers to experience our mindful and conscious culture. I hope the House becomes a place where conversations about sustainability and the cosmetic industry can flourish, fostering a healthy, engaged community.

Koeun: I hope the Melixir House serves as a model for spaces with similar cultures. It’s a place where we maintain a healthy lifestyle while also focusing on work. I believe strong communities are built around strong cultures, and I’d love for this space to help spread that message.

Yerin: Spending so much time here has made all of us more conscious of sustainability. We’re more mindful about recycling, washing our hands, and using eco-friendly products. I think the collaboration between different teams—whether it’s product development or marketing—has led to the creation of even better products. Through shared experiences like riding bikes to work or making salads with herbs we grow here, we’re able to connect more deeply with our customers.