123 architects sets futuristic 'white cave' retail+gallery within central beijing

123 architects designed ‘white cave’, a retail and gallery space on the first floor of a building surrounded by skyscrapers in central beijing. a display space runs along the existing all-glass façade, drawing passers-by in. the ceiling’s surface swells like waves, forming high and low areas that organically and intuitively conceal piping. lighting is placed within the ceiling’s highest points, creating the illusion that natural light is pouring into the ‘cave’.
the main space

all images courtesy of jin weiqi / kazushi miyamoto

123 architects aimed to design a place where space and body interact with each other and encourages one to be creative within ‘white cave’ while imagine alternate possibilities. the right part of the entrance is characterized by a large, cavernous opening, drawing the eyes toward the back of the store, offering a glimpse into the interior. at the left of the entrance, instant dimming glass clothe the exterior wall creating privacy when needed. a canvas of white walls and concrete floors, with a ceiling that animates the space complete the interior.

the main space

‘white cave’ was designed as an unexpected escape from the mega-scale urban space of vast roads and skyscrapers surrounding it, offering an inviting and intimate experience. the shop sells clothes, and various designer pieces -furniture and paintings. there is ample room for displaying products in a distinctive way, while a vip room gives to customers a futuristic space where they can shop in privacy.

the main space

a vip room is located behind the display space along the façade. using instant dimming glass along the exterior glazing, it becomes frosted, offering a private room for use by vip customers. when privacy is not necessary, it can serve as a large display space visible from outside. the room is furnished with silver tufted sofas, accompanied by illuminated glass floors and a tented ceiling, forming an interior that is classical yet futuristic.

VIP room

the main space

ceiling detail

fitting and display space

VIP room

the main façade

diagram

plan

project info:

name: white cave

architect: 123 architects

principal architect: kazushi miyamoto

project team: cao xiyangzi

total floor area: 236sqm

location: beijing, china

construction year: 2020

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edited by: christina petridou | designboom