- Interior
- Art & Design
In the heart of Beijing’s Chaoyang District, Wood Gallery is an impressive 200 square meter space that goes beyond the traditional function of a showroom. Led by Tong Zhang as lead designer and supported by the TSPACE DESIGN team, the gallery is a pioneer in combining art, culture and commerce. Completion in September 2023 will mark the beginning of a new era in brand experience and product presentation.
In a world where retail is constantly evolving, Wood Gallery saw an opportunity to transcend the traditional showroom. This space, which began as a wooden flooring showroom, has been transformed into a multi-dimensional experience that not only showcases products but also tells stories. Wood Gallery invites visitors to make a deep emotional connection with both the aesthetics and philosophical values of the brand. It is a space where the natural beauty of wood is not just a product, but a medium that conveys cultural meanings and brand values. Beijing’s cultural wealth is at the heart of Wood Gallery’s design. Inspired by the iconic Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, the space reflects the traditional Chinese cosmology of a “round heaven and square earth.” In this context, Zhang introduces a cylindrical structure into the rectangular space, creating a sense of balance and harmony. The circle symbolizes perfection and unity with nature, while the square outdoor space provides structure and stability. This subtle integration of traditional philosophies into modern design strengthens the connection between visitors, the space and the natural world. The design of the Wood Gallery is carefully tailored to create a fluid, non-linear experience. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed into a transitional space, which encourages calm and reflection before entering the core of the exhibition. The circular design, which limits and slowly reveals the view, forces visitors to be in the moment as they move through the space. This playful yet functional circulation emphasizes the spatial dynamics and offers a unique, interrupted flow in which the space unfolds in surprising ways.
The design of the Wood Gallery has been carefully tailored to create a fluid, non-linear experience
In the Wood Gallery, wood is elevated to a work of art. The design recalls the principles of an art gallery, with the “white box” space focusing entirely on the floor and its rich, natural textures. Visitors are encouraged to admire the fine details of the wood up close, and to reflect on the beauty of natural imperfections such as knots and textures. The central atrium, with its impressive column design and softly filtered light, evokes a serene and almost sacred atmosphere. The combination of architectural elements and artistic presentation transforms the space into a place of contemplation and wonder. In addition to the aesthetics of wood, the interaction between light and nature also plays an important role in the Wood Gallery. The meeting area at the window, where sunlight streams through the glass and plants grow lushly, creates an indoor garden-like atmosphere. The subtle transitions between inside and outside, between nature and design, make this space lively and inviting. It is a place where visitors not only see products, but also experience a sense of well-being and connection with nature.
The Wood Gallery is a groundbreaking example of how a space can unite emotion, culture and commerce. Tong Zhang and his team have created an experience where visitors do not just consume products, but are also moved by the stories and values they represent. By integrating art, tradition and modernity, the Wood Gallery sets a new standard for brand showrooms and paves the way for other brands who strive to connect more deeply with their audiences. Here, an everyday material such as wood is transformed into a vehicle for cultural stories and aesthetic value, making the space a unique and meaningful experience. Photography by Liming Fang