In ancient times in China, ‘Cangshuge’ is a place where the most precious literary volumes are stored. This modern and elevated bookstore design by X+LIVING reminds us of the ancient libraries of China.

Shanghai-based architectural design firm X+LIVING has integrated such historic Chinese inspiration into their design of the Zhongshuge bookstore in Shanghai. This is the second Zhongshuge bookstore located in Beijing, and this time it is nestled within the prestigious Lafayette department store. With reference to the design of Chinese classical gardens, the design team connects various functional areas with different space layouts to outline a flowing path for consumers to explore.

The intriguing view from the entrance of the bookstore is akin to a painting, drawing the eyes in with its creation of depth in the retail space. Passerby can’t help but notice the lit pathways inviting them inside. The dramatic black, reflective flooring acts as a mirror, making it seem as if the circular entryways, which are often referred to as ‘Moon Gates’ in classical Chinese gardens, are being reflected in a still body of crystal clear water.

These ‘Moon Gate’ circular pathways can be seen throughout the bookstore. Apart from acting as a traffic corridor connecting the different rooms and spaces, they also play the role of framing the views between. A portion of these circular structures is utilized as reading nooks, with semi-circular seating inviting guests to curl up with a book, making the arched shapes aesthetically captivating and functional. These innovative applications of the traditional decorative element expand the range of design possibilities.

The designer uses relative perspectives to create optical illusions, where the arches are nested and intersecting, almost as if guests are navigating a mystical garden. Illuminated pathways beckon guests to continue their exploration until they finally reach an entryway that guides them into the cafe area.

The arrangement of tables and chairs in the cafe is distributed in a casual yet orderly fashion, simulating a gathering of ancient figures in a famous Chinese painting called “Qu Shui Liu Shang”. The shared tables and chairs enable the crowd to arrange themselves based on different social needs and constitutes an elegant scene.

Finally, beyond the doorway of the cafe lies the ‘bamboo forest’ — the cultural and creative space within the bookstore. Brightly lit and inviting, wooden branches are intentionally arranged throughout the room to encourage guests to break through their ‘straight-line’, direct approach mentality. The aim is to recreate the relaxed and leisurely atmosphere of meandering through a bamboo grove, where one’s steps are slower and the mind is more at ease.

This modern interpretation and combination of classic Chinese design elements and spaces have undoubtedly given people a reason to visit, but also a reason to stay awhile, with its unique spatial experiences ranging from surreal and mysterious merchandising spaces featuring dramatic black flooring to airy and bright open space reminiscent of delicate bamboo groves.

PROJECT DETAILS

Project name: Beijing Zhongshuge

Lafayette store Location: Beijing, China

Project area: 1110㎡

Completion time: 2020.4

Design Company: X+LIVING

Creative Designer: LI XIANG

Project Director: Ren Lijiao, Wu Feng

Participating Designers: Luo Ziyan, Zhang Xiaosong, Jiang Xueping

Photographer: Wu Qingshan