Located in the southern section of Taikoo Li, Sanlitun, Nikon collaborated with Zhizuo Studio to unveil a new direct-operated store in Beijing, showcasing innovative visual and spatial design. Unlike typical mall layouts, the main design challenge was to revitalize the exterior facade and the soaring eight-meter-high interior space. The design team explored the technical principles and aesthetic essence of cameras, seamlessly integrating these concepts into the architecture. Drawing inspiration from nature and blending it with industrial design elements, they crafted a distinctive spatial language that not only distinguishes Nikon’s flagship store from the surrounding modern commercial buildings but also reinforces strong brand identity and regional cultural connection.
From the outset, the team prioritized sustainability by deciding to reuse the existing curtain wall structure. They carefully analyzed the primary and secondary structural elements, merging indoor and outdoor functions to create a new “skin” for the exterior. Using a mix of materials—metal wave boards, soft stone panels, sun boards, and bamboo steel—the design delivers rich facade layering and striking concave-convex visual effects. The bamboo steel texture extends dynamically beyond the window frames, while windows of varying sizes act like camera viewfinders, capturing intriguing glimpses of the surrounding environment.
The circular atrium serves as the spatial heart, gathering visual elements while surrounding functional spaces form a nested layout that connects various areas. The beige textured paint covering the large curved atrium evokes a primitive cave-like surface and also provides sound dampening, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The ground floor features reclaimed green bricks salvaged from demolished historic buildings in Beijing, reflecting environmental consciousness and local heritage. Throughout the space, display fixtures combine elm wood textures with stainless steel details, reinforcing the theme of nature meeting technology.
The second-floor windows and corridors allow visual connectivity between different areas. Transparent glass railings float along stainless steel bridges, further enhancing the technological ambiance. The layered circular ceiling, inspired by the multi-layered structure of camera lenses, adds an elegant energy source to the space.
In the workshop area, to maximize natural light and maintain visual connection between the two floors, Zhizuo Studio used sun panels to design the sandwich bridge railings. The railing framework extends seamlessly to the lower corridor and first-floor walls, integrating railings, lighting, and shelving into a cohesive design system with orderly lines, creating a harmonious aesthetic within the creative space.
On the opposite wall, the thematic design continues the “component composite” concept from the exterior facade. This wall features multiple elements including a display screen, sound-absorbing panels, display racks, and wooden and acrylic panels adorned with camera construction patterns, enriching the space’s visual complexity.
The entrance concierge desk acts as a signature urban lens check-in point for all Nikon direct stores. Its back wall cleverly features eco-friendly straw boards, emphasizing Nikon’s commitment to sustainability. In the exhibition area, a circular camera booth with a metal cross design on its desktop mimics a camera lens focal point, naturally directing visitors’ gaze to the exhibits and highlighting their unique appeal.
The rest area surrounding the atrium is furnished with custom multifunctional furniture made from wood combined with aluminum profiles. This design not only offers practicality but also delivers a sleek, modern aesthetic, creating a comfortable and inviting leisure space for customers.
At Nikon’s Beijing store, the interplay of light and architecture embodies the philosophy that light is the soul of photography. During daylight, the building’s volume and varying translucent openings capture subtle light changes throughout the day. At night, the facade elements create dynamic visual contrasts through light and shadow.
This poetic interaction not only enriches the store’s atmosphere but also offers photography enthusiasts diverse scenes to test equipment and unleash creativity. In the vibrant Sanlitun district, Nikon and Zhizuo Studio aim to provide a welcoming haven for photography communities in Beijing and nearby areas, fostering a harmonious experience of mind, body, and environment with every visit.
Project Information
Architect: Zhizuo Studio
Area: 377m²
Project Year: 2024
Photographer: Wen Studio
Manufacturer: Huili, Zhuyuan Technology
Client: Nikon Imaging Instrument Sales (China) Co., Ltd
Lighting Consultant: Fangfang Studio
Structural Design: Shanghai Sanyao Construction Engineering Design Co., Ltd
Curtain Wall Consultant: Shandong Zhongfei Curtain Wall Engineering Co., Ltd
Construction Party: Beijing Zhubo Decoration Engineering Co., Ltd
Location: Chaoyang District, Beijing
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