Mountain Soil reimagines retail as an immersive, context-driven experience.

NO SUCH THING by Mountain Soil is a concept store in Shaoxing, Zhejiang, that presents a response to its local context and functional needs. The space – spanning 300 square-metres – integrates fashion, accessories, footwear, home goods and art derivatives in a curatorial environment that respects its commercial nature and architectural surroundings.

The approach introduces dual rectangular volumes, assigning the outer glass views to distinct spatial units. Structural variation emerges through the interplay of staggered heights in these zones. The former ceiling height of seven metres is retained in the area near the glass façade, maintaining a sense of openness while preventing the space from feeling overly segmented. The latter is tiered, with a multifunctional second floor that accommodates display, office and storage functions. This zoning creates clear circulation pathways and keeps the open shopping area separate from more private spaces.

A space for leisure at the entrance offers light refreshments and encourages visitors to linger, engaging with the environment. Outdoor seating further extends this idea, providing a space for relaxation and conversation in keeping with Shaoxing’s slow-paced lifestyle.

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Irregular columns support the second floor, but their otherwise industrial presence is softened by wooden wraps. This decision, along with the overall spatial arrangement, references the greenery outside, creating a somewhat forest-like environment. The circulation is improved through the detailing, with varying line diameters creating fluid pathways, while locally sourced materials – namely fabrics from the textile markets – create fabric panels that replace traditional wall finishes, grounding the design in the textile legacy of the region.

Mountainsoil Interior Design
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Next up: The Warehouses’ metamorphosis by J.AR Office