A 1950s Beijing Forklift Factory Fosters Creative Synergy Between an Architecture Studio and a Modern Florist.

In a charming twist of fate, a forgotten 1950s forklift factory cottage in Beijing has been transformed into a dual-purpose space that houses both architectural studio Office AIO and modern florist Florette. The project breathes new life into an industrial relic while fostering creative synergy.

The 90-square-metre renovation divides the space both horizontally and vertically, making the most of the 9-meter-high pitched ceiling. The ground floor serves as Florette’s domain, with a central axis left intentionally clear for the movement of floral arrangements. A workbench in Carrara stretches along the eastern wall, complemented by two island stations that create an efficient workflow for the florists.

A Spatial Folly: Ziinlife Beijing Showroom by Atelier Tao+c.

Two scaffold like structures, interlocking and rotated inside the existing warehouse, allow for homogenous planning and display of furniture, eliminating much of the collection hierarchy.

One of the most striking features is the 4-meter-long walk-in glass flower fridge—a constantly evolving display of nature’s palette that anchors the space visually. The architects have added two glass enclosures to the original structure, with the northern addition serving as an entrance featuring a ring of silver curtains that provides flexible privacy.

Office AIO occupies the upper level via two semi-enclosed mezzanines, connected by a lightweight spiral staircase. This spatial arrangement maintains visual connection for management while ensuring each business has its own distinct environment. Two generous skylights flood the central axis with natural light, highlighting the preserved timber sarkings and beams, now painted in crisp white.

R Society Store for Floral Art in Yixing by 0321 Studio.

An ever-present tension between the vibrancy of flowers and the cool and robust quality of rough stone and shiny metal dominates this intriguing project.

The material palette is restrained—ecru terrazzo floors, marine-grade plywood cabinetry, and pastel sage steelwork create a serene backdrop for both creative practices. Outside, the 200-square-metre garden pays homage to Beijing’s floral heritage with rows of roses, while a sun-drenched patio provides a tranquil retreat.

This thoughtful renovation by Tim Kwan and Isabelle Sun combines two creative businesses and more importantly—it creates a community hub that has hosted everything from Kinfolk’s first Chinese “Gathering” to intimate weddings.

Chubby Chic: Pang Mei Noodle Bar in Beijing by Office AIO.

Edging onto an open air courtyard in Beijing’s commercial district, Office AIO’s third outpost for Pang Mei Noodle Bar embraces chubby shapes.

[Images courtesy of Office AIO. Photography by Wen Studio.]