Atomic Press Cafe

Overview

Kensington's UNSW Bookshop is not your average uni bookstore — the award-winning shop has taken home the Campus Bookseller of the Year award in 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2017. But its brand new facelift has revealed that the store isn't limited to uni students anymore, either. As well as its array of titles, the shop now houses an international café, reading room and event space. And it's all open to the public.

The newly refurbished digs span an upgraded 430 square metres and has been designed by SJB Architects to act as a 'community hub'. The result is a series of rooms to browse, read and relax in. Expect a wide range of books on sale, from national and global best sellers to illustrated art, architecture and travel — as well as, of course educational books, UNSW course materials and branded merchandise.

Also within the bookstore, but independently operated, is Atomic Press Café, a New Zealand coffee roaster. It's serving up seasonal café fare, takeaway sandwiches and salads, baked goods and its coffee seven days per week. There's space for 40 all up, and you can grab a seat either inside or out to sip a latte and read your new book. This is the brand's only current Australian shopfront.

The revamped space has also allowed for a larger events program, including book launches, author talks, book clubs and student nights.