The Portobello Bookshop is located in what was formerly a fishing tackle shop (Mike’s Tackle Shop) for 30 years, and before that was an old cooperative — something they discovered after removing the frontage of the tackle shop. Extensive renovations took place from January 2019 to June 2019, during which time they discovered the lovely columns that are now a staple of the shop’s interior, which were hiding beneath plasterboard walls. The aim was to create a warm, modern, open space that’s welcoming and pleasure to spend time browsing books in, and which allows them to host a great events programme.