HEYTEA Xidan Store: tradition and modernity

Q&A Studio recently collaborated with the brand HEYTEA to create a captivating window store concept titled “Tea City”.This project draws inspiration from Beijing’s urban grid, utilizing innovative recycled tea leaves panels as the primary material.

Located in the heart of Beijing’s historic Xidan area, the project represents a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, paying homage to the area’s rich heritage while offering a vision of the future of retail design. The historic urban grid of Xidan, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, provides a fascinating backdrop for the project. Once a bustling hub for goods transportation and markets, Xidan’s urban grid continues to define its unique character.

The facade panels of “Tea City” are strategically positioned to mimic the intricate network of streets and alleyways, creating a visually striking display that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding architectural landscape. At the heart of the design concept is the innovative use of recycled tea leaves, a testament to both sustainability and the area’s deep-rooted tea culture. These panels are crafted through a meticulous process that begins with collecting and drying used tea leaves, which are carefully sorted and processed.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these eco-friendly panels evoke the essence of Xidan’s heritage and engage the senses, emitting the soothing aroma of tea as visitors approach the window store. This sensory experience serves as a subtle reminder of the tranquility that awaits within—a brief respite from the chaos of urban life.

“Tea City” transcends the traditional confines of a retail space, morphing into an unofficial market architectural installation. Its dynamic design invites visitors to immerse themselves in a world where past and present converge, where fleeting moments give way to lasting connections. Here, customers are not merely patrons; they are participants in a shared experience—a celebration of community and culture.

When customers step through the doors of HEYTEA’s Xidan store, they are greeted not only by the inviting aroma of freshly brewed tea but also by the promise of a fleeting moment of tranquility—a sanctuary amidst the chaos, a haven for the soul.

CREDITS
Project: HEYTEA Xidan Store
Location: Beijing, China
Studio: Q&A
Year: 2024