Climax: The Unconventional Bookstore Redefining the Literary Landscape

Tucked away in the heart of New York City, Climax is more than just a bookstore – it's a cultural hub that celebrates the unconventional, the provocative, and the boundary-pushing. Founded in London in 2020, this unique establishment has now expanded to the Big Apple, offering a curated collection of rare, overlooked, and erotica-infused publications that cater to the insatiably curious.

Unleashing the Power of the Printed Word

A Sanctuary for the Creatively Inclined

Climax is a haven for those who thrive on ideas and imagery that challenge the status quo. Its shelves are stocked with a diverse array of publications, from the rare and obscure to the boldly erotic. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lives of transgender women in 1970s Tokyo, explore the performance art of Cosey Fanni Tutti, or discover the provocative work of Cindy Sherman. This bookstore is a playground for the creatively inclined, where the boundaries of conventional thought are pushed and reimagined.

A Publishing House on the Rise

Climax's ambitions extend beyond the confines of a traditional bookstore. It has also become a thriving publishing house, showcasing the work of artists and visionaries who have been overlooked or underappreciated. Last year, the store published its first book, "Pissing Women" by Sophy Rickett, a captivating collection of photographs featuring the artist's female friends in office attire, defying societal norms. Upcoming releases include a comprehensive look at the photographic archive of Martine Syms and a series of images capturing the cruising culture of Hampstead Heath in the 1980s, shot by Del LaGrace Volcano.

Collaborative Ventures: Blending Fashion and Literature

Climax's influence extends beyond the printed page, as the store has also become a hub for collaborative fashion ventures. In 2023, the store partnered with Marc Jacobs' Heaven line, and more recently, it has joined forces with the London-based label Chopova Lowena. This collaboration has resulted in a range of playful and provocative items, including a peek-a-boo T-shirt, chunky charm necklaces, and Chopova's first-ever underwear set, adorned with the words "Chopova loves Climax."

A Flagship Store with a Distinct Identity

The New York outpost of Climax is more than just a satellite location – it's a distinct entity that reflects the store's evolving identity. Founder Isabella Burley envisions the New York space as a "real flagship store experience," one that builds upon the codes and visual direction established in the London headquarters. The store's design, crafted by Kat Milne, is a captivating blend of modern minimalism and subtle sensuality, with stainless steel shelves, milky latex benches, and hidden drawers that beckon the curious to explore.

A Bookstore as a Creative Nexus

Climax is more than just a place to purchase books; it's a hub for creative collaboration and inspiration. Burley relishes the opportunity to connect her photographer, stylist, and creative director friends with the store's vast collection of rare and overlooked publications, serving as a valuable reference point for their projects. This symbiotic relationship between the store and the creative community it serves is a testament to Climax's role as a cultural catalyst, where ideas and imagery converge to push the boundaries of what a bookstore can be.