Designed by Verduzco Guerra, Punto y Coma in Querétaro redefines the bookstore experience with its fluid planning, creating a space where exploration and the exchange of ideas flow seamlessly.
The space features a doorless layout with curved walls that guide visitors through its various areas. This design encourages movement and discovery, with each part of the space revealing something new. A long display table organizes the layout, creating a pathway that connects the different sections of the bookstore and cultural center. The space includes open areas for rest and socializing, as well as quieter corners ideal for reading and reflection.
One notable area is the Reflective Space, a flexible spot that can be used for a variety of activities. At the back of the premises, a collaborative workspace offers three different work environments: a central blue table for group work, individual booths for focused tasks, and a long desk with views of a small courtyard.
The materials and furniture in Punto y Coma were chosen with care to enhance the existing space. The renovation revealed the original concrete slab from the 1980s, which now forms the polished yet rough flooring. The walls and ceilings are coated in fine lime stucco by Nanocal, creating a smooth, continuous surface that ties the space together.
The custom-designed furniture strikes a balance between function and form. The blue tables, with their steel substructure and cement panel finish, stand out against the more subtle American oak benches and support pieces. This combination allows the furniture to blend with the neutral tones of the walls, keeping the focus on the books and objects on display.
A flexible shelving system by JM Villegas, made with brackets and natural aluminum strips, adapts to the different sizes and heights of the displayed items. Natural steel accents, such as the central cylindrical light fixture, add a functional and unique touch to the space.
Punto y Coma is a place where design, materials, and layout come together to create an environment that encourages visitors to explore and engage with the space and its contents.
