Just a few meters from the Etterbeek train station, Librairie Chimères stands out with its storefront adorned with foliage and dreamlike motifs. Inside, stacks of science fiction, fantasy, and supernatural novels sit alongside mysterious vials, wooden ship models, and aesthetic curiosities. This independent bookstore has chosen to dedicate its entire shelf space and visual identity to fantasy and science fiction literature, while also including a selection of horror works.
An immersive setting
The owner designed the store’s layout to physically reflect the literary worlds he offers. The classic wooden furniture, green-painted walls, and soft lighting create a deliberately enchanting atmosphere. The intention is to transport visitors the moment they walk through the door, long before they even open a book. This attention to detail in the decor makes the bookstore an immersive space where time seems to stand still for readers lingering among the shelves.
Personalized reading recommendations
In addition to the many new releases and bins dedicated to used books, the bookstore relies on personalized recommendations. The owner notably suggests the book *Un long voyage* by French author Claire Duvivier. He describes this work as a semi-autobiographical narrative in which the fantastical element remains understated at first. The shift into the realm of the imagination occurs later in the plot, striking “like a meteorite” to completely upend the reader’s perception of the world depicted.
By also offering a selection of board games, Librairie Chimères provides a physical, specialized gathering place for fans of the genre, serving as a direct alternative to the algorithms of online retail platforms.
📍Address: 404 Avenue de la Couronne, 1050 Ixelles
