Banov Store: Historic Patterns Meet Modern Graphic Design

Yao Wu’s visual storytelling celebrates the legacy of the Wanli Tea Road.

Banov Store’s graphic design project draws deep inspiration from the Ba Gong House, a landmark along China’s legendary Wanli Tea Road. This historic site in Hankou has witnessed centuries of change, and its legacy is reimagined through a series of intricate patterns. These designs, featured on store wallpapers and products, are rooted in the distinctive contours, natural beauty, and dynamic animal motifs of the cities along the Tea Road. By deconstructing and reorganizing the architectural features of Ba Gong House, the team has created visual symbols that bridge historical charm and modern aesthetics.

What sets this project apart is its seamless integration of 19th-century arts and crafts motifs with contemporary graphic sensibilities. The wallpaper patterns are not only decorative but also serve as a narrative device, inviting visitors to embark on a visual journey along the Ten Thousand Miles Tea Road. The design’s core theme is “beauty,” expressed through natural forms, geometric patterns, and historical architectural details. This approach transforms traditional elements into modern visual experiences, enhancing the store’s ambiance and brand identity.

The realization of these patterns involved extensive research and creative collaboration. The design team, including Wu Yao, Zhang Yuchen, Xie Boxing, Tan Zhen, Tang Wenhu, Zheng Ziyang, and Liao Hao, meticulously extracted and reinterpreted graphics from Ba Gong House’s architecture. The resulting designs are versatile, extending beyond wallpapers to packaging, exhibition planning, and digital media, forming a multidimensional cultural communication system. This adaptability strengthens the brand’s presence both in physical and digital spaces.

Functionally, the unified visual system enhances brand recognition and immerses consumers in the cultural narrative of the Wanli Tea Road. The intuitive presentation of historical culture, combined with modern design language, retains traditional charm while appealing to contemporary tastes. This strategy not only attracts attention but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the region’s heritage among visitors and customers.

Banov Store’s project, completed in Beijing in early 2024, stands as a testament to the power of design in cultural storytelling. Awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2025, it exemplifies excellence in graphics, illustration, and visual communication. By authentically blending art, history, and innovation, Yao Wu’s team has created a design that enriches the retail experience and contributes to the ongoing dialogue between past and present.

The Banov Store graphic design project demonstrates how thoughtful design can elevate everyday spaces, making history accessible and engaging for modern audiences. Through the lens of visual storytelling, the legacy of the Wanli Tea Road continues to inspire and connect communities across generations.