Hugendubel Frankfurt: A new chapter for the bookseller's largest branch

With the comprehensive modernization of the Hugendubel-store at Steinweg in Frankfurt am Main, the Schwitzke Group has created a space that combines a passion for books with a contemporary shopping experience. Spanning approximately 3,000 m² of retail space across four floors, the new concept brings together the Hugendubel brand identity, the building’s unique history, and a high-quality atmosphere that invites customers to linger.

The project is part of the long-standing partnership between Hugendubel and the Schwitzke Group. Together, Schwitzke & Partner, Schwitzke ID and Schwitzke Project a solution that preserves the historic architecture of the former cinema building while meeting the requirements of a modern bookstore.

New worlds of experience for readers

At the heart of the redesign is a bookstore concept that fosters orientation, inspiration, and social interaction. The Romance, Manga & Comic, and English Books sections have been reimagined and designed as distinct, immersive worlds. The newly designed “Hessenshop” provides additional space for regional products and themes.

The popular reading nooks in the light-filled atrium have also been visually enhanced and remain a central meeting point for customers. The offering is complemented by the redesigned Henris Bistro, which blends the building’s history with Hugendubel’s more than 130-year tradition and invites visitors to linger.

Renovation during ongoing operations

Construction was carried out by Schwitzke Project, acting as general contractor, while business operations continued. Despite the challenging site logistics associated with the central downtown location, the store remained open throughout the entire construction period. Close collaboration among all companies within the Schwitzke Group allowed for the seamless integration of planning, brand presentation, and execution, enabling the modernization to be completed in just 14 weeks.

Sustainably developing the historic building stock

Particular emphasis was placed on a sensitive approach to the existing structure. The building’s characteristic layout remained unaltered, yet was purposefully integrated into the new visual identity. The result is a bookstore that makes its history visible while simultaneously setting new standards for retail design, brand presentation, and modern retail spaces.

With the redesign of the Frankfurt flagship store, the Schwitzke Group demonstrates how existing properties and retail spaces can be sustainably evolved without losing their identity.

Project data at a glance

• Project: Hugendubel Frankfurt Steinweg
• Location: Frankfurt am Main
• Use: Bookstore / Retail
• Size: ca. 3.000 sqm over four levels
• Client: Hugendubel
• Services: Interior design, brand staging, and structural implementation
• Participating companies: Schwitzke & Partner, Schwitzke ID, Schwitzke Project
• Special Considerations: Modernization during ongoing operations within 14 weeks.
• Focus: Retail design, brand staging, revitalization, and building within existing structures.

Pictures: DieProfifotogarfen