Revolutionizing Cinema Experience: FAB Cinema by Xiang Li

Reimagining the Traditional Theater Space with Innovative Design

The inspiration for FAB Cinema stems from the movie-making process itself. Xiang Li's innovative approach has transformed the main hall of the theater into a film production set, providing an immediate and dramatic impression to the audience upon entering. The design encourages interaction between the audience and the cinema beyond just watching the movie, enhancing the overall experience and potential for consumption.

What sets FAB Cinema apart from traditional theaters is its unique design. The theater offers audiences dual identities - as a viewer in reality and a participant in the film-making process. The design gradually immerses the audience into the world of film, transforming the usually mundane waiting period into an engaging prelude to the movie. The space is not just a theater but an active participation platform.

The design realization of FAB Cinema is achieved through the use of customized furniture that enhances the theme of the space. Elements such as a bathtub sofa, director's rest seat, and a ticket counter that mimics a set box, all contribute to creating an immersive atmosphere where consumers can experience the charm of the movie.

The project, covering a floor area of 1150 sqm, was completed in January 2020 in Xi'an, China. The design team, led by Li Xiang, with project directors Ren Lijiao and Wu Feng, faced the challenge of breaking away from the traditional theater pattern. The team focused on creating a space that caters to the social needs of the younger generation, going beyond just selling movie tickets to maximizing the value of the commercial space.

Through the design of FAB Cinema, Xiang Li has found a solution to the future development of theaters. The traditional focus on panoramic sound effects and screen viewing experience has been expanded to include creativity and a more engaging audience experience. The design has been recognized with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2021, a testament to its innovative approach and remarkable execution.