Welcome the renaissance of bookshops
Design by the book
When Amazon and other e-commerce giants deliver books to your doorstep, brick and mortar bookshops have succeeded in fighting back with their unique and mellow atmosphere. The largest bookshop chain in Finland, Suomalainen Kirjakauppa, asked Kuudes to design their crown jewel, the flagship store that would be a true bookworm’s living room.
The store is a felicitous closing of the circle in the grandiose history of the brand: Suomalainen Kirjakauppa opened their first store in the exact same location, the Salama house in downtown Helsinki, back in 1912. The building’s architecture has also played a role in the design, from shapes to colour choices.
Stop the press
The design draws inspiration from a traditional printing house in a fresh, contemporary and bright Scandinavian manner. Centuries-old printing techniques, like woodblock and letterpress, are brought to the present day in wayfinding and signage. At the entrance, the visitor is greeted by a stunning canvas zigzagging in the ceiling and from one floor to another – just like a newspaper printing press. The vivid usage of Finnish typography in posters, neon lights and other decorative elements bring a finishing touch to the design.
Over 1000 m2 of retail space is split into different nooks and nests by tall room-dividing furniture, creating cosy environments that invite you to spend some time with your favourite book. The homey feeling is also emphasised by using traditional bookshelves – instead of only traditional shop fittings.
”I am super proud of the result. The Kuudes team really pulled together and made things move forward quickly. We believe in the appeal of the bookshop: people need places where to meet and discuss, get inspiration and experiences or just find a quiet place for themselves. Personal and professional customer service is a major focus for us, physical stores make it possible.”
Ari Hokkanen, Business Location Manager
Suomalainen Kirjakauppa
