Historic Charm Meets Contemporary Retail in Modum Atelier Boutique

Set within the historic Xinanli district of Nanjing, China, the newly unveiled Moment boutique by architecture studio Modum Atelier seamlessly blends contemporary retail with the city’s rich architectural heritage.

Occupying the second floor of a Qing Dynasty-era structure, the boutique overlooks a secluded courtyard centred around a jujube tree, reinforcing the connection between nature and design.

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With just 3.5 metres of ground-floor space available, Modum Atelier devised an open-air corridor linking the bustling street to the hidden courtyard. This thoughtful intervention not only enhances access but also preserves the architectural integrity of the surrounding network of wooden houses and alleyways. The boutique’s facade integrates weathering steel window frames that complement the building’s existing brickwork, reinforcing its harmonious relationship with the historic streetscape.

The interior, arranged in an L-shaped configuration, is anchored by an elevated wooden pavilion at its centre. Inspired by the evolution of Nanjing’s historical buildings, the pavilion functions as a contemporary interpretation of a tea room, providing a setting for intimate gatherings, product launches, and creative salons. Suspended on short columns, the structure appears to float above large, scattered stones, further grounding it in natural elements. Its open-fronted design, sloping roof, and suspended staircase contribute to the sense of lightness and fluidity within the space.

The boutique’s layout mirrors the experience of a traditional Chinese garden corridor, guiding visitors along a carefully curated path around the pavilion. Clothing displays are positioned along this meandering route, while strategically placed mirrors and windows frame captivating views of the courtyard and surrounding streetscape. According to Modum Atelier, these reflective surfaces not only enhance functionality but also establish a dynamic dialogue between the boutique and its exterior environment, creating a layered and immersive shopping experience.

A restrained material palette of natural wood and crisp white tones ensures the merchandise remains the focal point, while textured outdoor water-brushed stone flooring contrasts with the pavilion’s refined timber, reinforcing the boutique’s indoor-outdoor connection.

“We aimed to transform the sales space into an exhibition filled with storytelling, emotional resonance, and experiential value,” the studio explained. “Through a visual narrative akin to a long cinematic shot, the surrounding landscape naturally integrates into the retail environment, shaping the customer’s interaction with the brand.”

By embracing both heritage and modernity, Modum Atelier’s Moment boutique offers a refined retail experience that pays homage to Nanjing’s architectural legacy while redefining the possibilities of contemporary boutique design.

Images by Howie via Dezeen

Set within the historic Xinanli district of Nanjing, China, the newly unveiled Moment boutique by architecture studio Modum ...