Zhongshuge Bookstore: A Unique Experience in Beijing

There’s nothing quite like spending some time in a bookstore. The experience of browsing through inspirational titles and searching for interesting authors is heightened when the surroundings are truly unique. One such example is the recently opened Zhongshuge bookstore in , which features magical tunnels made of books and calm study areas.

Located at the Galeries Lafayette department store at , this bookshop includes a serene study hall where visitors can catch up on some work or simply sit and enjoy a new book. Moreover, there’s a cultural and creative area, perfect for younger guests to unwind in little nooks and crannies, with the floor adorned by an eye-catching world map design.

The design of the bookshop is inspired by the look and feel of classical Chinese gardens. The bookshelves serve as a canvas, creating wall-like structures that resemble filled with colorful books, guiding visitors into a labyrinth of literature. Additionally, mirrored surfaces enhance the visual experience, while the café takes inspiration from a classical Chinese painting called ‘Qu Shui Liu Shang.’ Hidden behind a door, a bamboo forest features simplified wooden branches, creating a tranquil ambiance.

“All of the bookstores that we designed are inspired by local culture. The classical gardens and the reading space collided from three different perspectives. This unique approach distinguishes it from traditional bookstores. We connect various functional areas with diverse space layouts, consequently making visitors more interested and curious about spaces like this,” a representative of X+Living, the architecture firm behind the project, stated.

The response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive. Spaces like Zhongshuge seem to be part of a growing trend, akin to the stunning bookstore that opened in a , equipped with modern designs that blend beautifully with a building dating back to 1931.