The nice rice Beijing Chaoyang Joy City store makes a quiet debut within the mall. Responding closely to the site’s spatial characteristics, the design takes full advantage of both indoor and outdoor entrances as well as the winding floor plan. Drawing inspiration from Beijing’s traditional hutong architecture, the two connected spaces are imagined as a pair of old wooden houses tucked within an alley. Rounded corner detailing softens the external angles, echoing the gentle turns and subtle transitions characteristic of hutong streets.
The space is anchored in a minimalist white palette. Through thoughtful combinations of materials and forms, a distinctive design language emerges. Quilting-inspired detailing adds texture to the interior, while irregular white “rice ball” elements scattered across the floor introduce a playful note, creating a relaxed and artful atmosphere.
Although white defines the overall space, variation is introduced through differing materials and forms across fixtures, floors, walls, and ceilings, enriching the spatial texture. White wainscoting paired with textured paint expresses refinement and restraint, while the pieced white rice-ball installations enliven the environment, preventing monotony. The minimalist spatial approach resonates with the brand’s pared-back products, proving that even essentials can convey a quiet sense of elevated quality.
