Top Shelf Books

Collection
Design Strategy (MBA) | Design Division

Course
Fall 2016Experiences StudioCharlie SuttonDSMBA-606-01
Final project
Student(s)
Justin Paul, Maisee Xiong, Nick Oliviere-Brooks, Candelaria Ochoa, Rebecca Luoh
Description
At Top Shelf Books, we curate themed pairings of stories and drinks to help those who normally don’t have time to read feel more accomplished.

Our pop-up offered five distinct pairings of short stories and delicious beverages. Each shelf on the back wall highlighted one of these pairings, and featured some additional curated items which related to some key elements within the plot of the correlating story. Multi-sensory touch points were emphasized throughout the experience: the touch of the handmade leather-bound books and the hardwood countertop; the sound of mellow jazz music playing in the background and enjoyable chatter with the book/barkeeper; the taste of refreshing artisanal cocktails; the sight of a cozy and enchanting bar atmosphere. 

Key branding elements such as the logo, which features a wine glass holding a feathered pen, are meant to emphasize this core concept of “pairings”. The two-sided bar coasters took into consideration individual’s needs for peace and privacy while reading. The book/bar keep was there to make customers feel at ease, while providing clarity on the core purpose of the pop-up. Even small details (such as the coat hooks under the bar counter and the bar stools with backs) were intended to maintain a cohesive and comfortable experience throughout the customer’s journey. 

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