Open House Bookstore: A new design concept

Top view of Open House Bookshop

A new design concept created around Art books

Central Embassy top floor

Bangkok has become an Asian showcase for Architecture and Design. In just a matter of a few years, Sukhumvit has become a new designer's showcase. It first started with Siam Center, then it extended to its twin mall, Siam Discovery offering a totally new concept of shopping, design, and relaxation. When EM Quartier opened, it also became a new attraction featuring a waterfall, a suspended garden and a spiraling alley of cafés, bars, and restaurants. Central Embassy was also featuring a stupendous contemporary architecture. But due to the fact that it was a haven for the top brand names, it remained mostly snubbed by most people. This is probably why they tried hard to revive it in a way that would attract people. 

Open House Bookstore, on the 6th Floor of Central Embassy, opened a few months ago with another brilliant new concept. They turned the entire floor into a bookstore that looks more like a contemporary library than a simple place for books.

The idea was to set a sort of community environment having books at its center. "This floor here was conceived by Central Embassy and Klein Dytham architecture (KDa).  They wanted to do something different with retail, such as bringing together books and restaurants." [Thailand Tatler, 30 May 2017]. 

There are lots of books, both in Thai or in English, not only regarding the Arts, but also travels,

Quiet reading corner with a view

regional interest, rare editions, cook books, and also books for children. There are sofas and armchairs to rest among the books on display.

Then, all around they have opened a series of restaurants, coffee shops, and even a wine bar with a view on Sukhumvit and Wireless Road. Children have their own safe place while parents go browsing for books. In the evening, they also have a small live band with a singer.

The concept seems to be successful by judging the number of people patronizing the premises. This is an absolutely wonderful place to relax among the books. 

A library-like corner

Browsing an Art book

Playroom for children

Dining area

Evening live music

Restroom view

Quiet coffee shop with a view for readers or laptop browsers.