In a city as vibrant and historically rich as Beijing, the opening of Jetlag Books' latest store is a fascinating development. This bookshop, designed by Studio NOR, is more than just a place to browse and buy books; it's a thoughtful exploration of architectural heritage and a unique blend of past and present.
A Tribute to Soviet-Style Architecture
The Friendship Store, as it's aptly named, pays homage to its historical context. Nestled along Chang'an Avenue, it occupies the site of a former service building adjacent to the iconic Friendship Store complex, a supply store with a Soviet-style facade and Bauhaus influences. Studio NOR's design is a delicate dance between preservation and innovation.
What makes this project particularly intriguing is the designers' approach to balancing the old and the new. They've avoided the extremes of either preserving every detail as a time capsule or completely disregarding the past. Instead, they've created an 'intermediate state,' a beautiful fusion of historical narratives and contemporary daily life.
Blending the Past and Present
The 180-square-metre bookshop is a testament to this philosophy. It seamlessly combines a 1970s service building with a steel-structured addition from the 2010s. The existing steel structure, reimagined as a 'frontier' or 'display window,' is a striking feature, adorned with matching steel signage. The single-storey volume is inviting, with outdoor seating and a street-facing plaza.
One detail that immediately stands out is the studio's reinterpretation of the neighboring building's facade. Thick walls, deep-set windows, overhanging eaves, and high parapets create a unique aesthetic, almost like a modern interpretation of the Soviet-style architecture. The existing doors and windows, lowered to create a more welcoming commercial space, are framed by steel overhangs, a nod to the original Friendship Store architecture.
A Dynamic Interior
Inside, the bookshop is centered around an impressive 8.5-metre-long bar. This bar area, wrapped in dark green and brown tiles, is described as the most visually dynamic space in the bookstore. It connects a book display area with a multi-functional space, creating a seamless flow. The modular stainless steel bookshelves showcase Jetlag Books' travel-themed collection, while glazed wall tiles and matt-black flooring add a modern touch.
The back of the space features a three-step platform, a clever design choice that provides access to a storage room and can double as a temporary stage. The existing opening above the bar has been transformed into a deep skylight, flooding the space with natural light. The differences in floor levels are accounted for with steps on either side of the counter, adding to the unique character of the bookstore.
A Community Hub
At the northern end, the multi-functional area serves as a versatile space. With moveable furniture, it can accommodate various activities, from exhibitions to pop-up events. The exposed steel and concrete roofs, paired with grey concrete walls and terrazzo floors, echo the neighboring Friendship Store, creating a sense of unity.
In my opinion, this bookshop is not just a retail space but a community hub. It invites visitors to explore, engage, and connect with the past and present. It's a thoughtful and respectful tribute to Beijing's architectural heritage, and I believe it will become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
A New Perspective
This project raises an interesting question: how can we preserve and celebrate our architectural heritage while also embracing contemporary design? Studio NOR's approach offers a compelling answer, and I believe it sets a precedent for future developments. It's a delicate balance, but one that can result in truly remarkable spaces.
The Jetlag Books Friendship Store is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture, design, and the unique stories that buildings can tell.
