Bookstore Expansion and Pedestrian Traffic Strategy

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We developed a commercial and spatial strategy for an established bookstore located in the historic city centre. The project aimed to increase the usable retail floor area, strengthen the bookstore’s role as an anchor tenant, and attract additional pedestrian traffic through the property.

The proposal includes a new mezzanine and a reorganisation of the vertical circulation, creating a more efficient and commercially productive layout. The large central staircase serves not only as a connection between levels, but also as an informal seating area, an event space, and the main architectural feature of the interior.

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To complement the bookstore, we proposed introducing a branded café as a second anchor tenant. The combination of books, coffee, and fresh newspapers and magazines was intended to transform the venue from a conventional retail destination into part of visitors’ everyday routine.

A key element of the strategy was the creation of a new pedestrian route through the building. The proposed passage connects the approach from the metro station with the adjoining street, redirecting an existing pedestrian flow through the bookstore. On their way to work, visitors could enter the store, purchase coffee, newspapers, magazines, or a book, and continue towards their original destination via a more convenient and engaging route.

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The entrance concept was designed to attract attention without conflicting with the historic architecture. The oversized, brightly coloured door uses an intentionally unexpected scale to create a recognisable urban landmark. A contemporary neon sign integrated into the classical entrance portal establishes a strong contrast between old and new, while brightly coloured branded awnings create prominent signage zones and a consistent visual framework for advertising and tenant positioning.

The result is a commercially focused concept that increases the usable floor area, introduces an additional revenue-generating anchor tenant, improves pedestrian permeability, and enhances both the architectural and commercial value of the property.

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