# Illusory Bookstore Designs The Zhongshuge Bookstore Has an Expansive Space and a Unique Design By Mishal Omar | Published 2017-01-23 | Business Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zhongshuge References: [retaildesignblog.net](http://retaildesignblog.net/2016/09/04/zhongshuge-bookstore-by-xliving-shanghai-china/) & [xl-muse](http://www.xl-muse.com/) The new Zhongshuge bookstore is placed in the Reel mall in Shanghai, China and was designed by the creative agency X+living. The space is made up entirely of [neutral colors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/white-is-good-shop) – with pale browns, blacks, grays and whites making up most of the color scheme. It was designed to balance the bustling streets of the outside world with the peaceful, "spiritual" nature of being immersed in a book. The space offers reading areas, sparse book displays as well as displays that are more reminiscent of [bookshelves found in libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/espace-gabrielle-chanel). In order to optimize the design and enhance the appearance of the area, the agency placed mirrors on the walls to create the illusion of a more spacious bookstore. This bookstore uses creative designs and the optimization of space in order to draw consumers in. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.8/10 - Popularity: 64% | Activity: 41% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Gen Alpha, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Business](https://www.trendhunter.com/business) > [Retail](https://www.trendhunter.com/retail) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Creative Bookstore Designs:** Opportunities for bookstores to create unique and immersive spaces that attract consumers. - **Optimization of Space in Retail:** The use of mirrors and clever design techniques to make retail spaces appear larger and more inviting. - **Balance of Tranquility and Bustle:** Creating environments that offer a peaceful atmosphere while still being connected to the outside world. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Bookstore:** Bookstores can use unique designs and space optimization strategies to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. - **Retail Design:** Retail designers can explore innovative ways to create immersive and visually appealing spaces using mirrors and illusions. - **Creative Agencies:** Creative agencies can specialize in designing unique retail spaces that prioritize consumer experience and engagement. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Floating Wetland Bookstore](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/xixi-goldmye-bookstore.md) - [Shanghai Scented Bookstores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/scented-bookstore.md) - [Historic Academy Spatial Bookstores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/weishan-chongzheng-academy-bookstore.md) - [Metal Sheet-Facade Book Stores](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shanghai-book-city.md) - [Futuristic Commerce Spaces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/deji-plaza-phase-ii.md) - [Children's Story-Inspired Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/western-academy.md) - [Glass-Lined Towering Libraries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/beijing-city-library.md) - [Zen-Like Shopping Malls](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/zenlike-shopping-mall.md) - [Book Pile Retail Decor](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/aesop-store-1.md)