09-05-2025
This creative bookshop is hiding in a Des Moines design studio
Tucked away off Keo Way, there's a little bookshop inviting people to browse its creative and colorful curations.
State of play: Now Now Bookshop is smaller than a traditional store, but owners John and Lucy Solarz say they want to create a shopping experience that's more than just browsing, but community building.
How it started: The shop is inside Now Now, a design studio that works with local businesses like Tasty Tacos, Eden and Art Terrarium.
John, who collects vinyl records and books, wanted to create a more accessible way for people to meet them in the design studio. Lucy, who has a background in fashion and retail, always wanted a shop component to the business.
"Opening the bookshop was a really great way for us to connect with the everyday creative community that we knew exists," John says. "We just needed a space to allow that spark to happen.
What you'll find: Lucy says she picked coffee table books that other creatives could find inspiration from, like " The Vignelli Canon" and " Work Better. Live Smarter. Be Happier."
What they're saying: Young artists and college students have come into the studio both to browse books and get opinions on their designs and projects.
" I think people are really nervous to talk to designers — sometimes they feel like, 'What's it gonna cost me to ask you questions about a brand that I want to do or a website I want to create?' And having those doors open has really allowed people to comfortably come in and access us," Lucy says.
