This zen office complex offers a respite for weary desk dwellers

In association with Beijing Design Week and XLLD

The physical space of the office can play a big role in our wellbeing. If being tied to the desk inside the cubicle doesn't spark joy for you, you can find plenty of alternative options in Beijing. While cafes and co-working space are where to be for a good buzz and community vibe, for something different, there are also places that offer the rarer luxury of peace and privacy. 

On a mission to rethink traditional workplace to be is XLLD, a mixed-use complex located on the main street of Dongsi. Reborn from a retired department store, the property is the result of a major facelift and keeps a low-profile with a minimalist facade fronted by a few cafe shops and restaurants.

The inside is spacious and bright, with ample elm wood flooring and furnishing adding extra warmth to the space. On the ground floor, you’ll find smartly laid-out nooks including a semi-outdoor Beijing-styled courtyard divided by glass walls which lets in plenty of natural light. 

A scatter of well-furnished office, tea rooms and meeting rooms is dotted around all of its five levels. Need to switch off from work? There's a high-ceilinged theatre perfect for unwinding or taking a power nap. A literal hole-in-the-wall that's carved from the remains of the original property, it features bare concrete walls, wooden seating and comfy cushions.

At the top, there’s also an expansive 1,500sqm rooftop garden overlooking the surrounding hutongs against the backdrop of the CBD, perfect for eating lunch or enjoying a bit of fresh air.

Designed to breathe new life into disused buildings, XLLD delivers a human touch with its calm setting and stellar views. Considering a change of scenery? The work week might just feel a whole lot less hectic at this Dongsi complex.

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