Inside China’s New Wave of Conceptually Innovative Bookstores by By Jean-Yves Mollier and Patricia Sorel October 2, 2025

Once inside, customers are further surprised by a vast mirror covering the floor, which doubles the visual effect of this store created for the third millennium. Architect Li Xiang, founder of the X+Living design firm in Shanghai, visitors the impression of entering a rocket, whose speed is represented by the spiral staircase that takes them on a world-spanning trip. As at Hangzhou, Li Xiang divided the Shenzhen store into four distinct sections: a “concept” zone, a “forum,” a more conventional area aimed at children, and finally a conference room for events.

These spaces can be more than stores/libraries. They can be communal spaces.

We need more such spaces!