The Satori Harbor: A Sanctuary of Enlightenment

Vipshop's Award-Winning Library Embodies Contemplation and Cultural Symbolism

Located in the company's new headquarters, the library is a city within a city, featuring a gallery that reinterprets the European art saloon. The walls are adorned with paintings collected from around the world, placed in a non-hierarchical fashion. At the end of the corridor, a circular window captures a miniature corner of the city, creating an obscure experience of space and time.

The design of the library is inspired by the history of Guangzhou, a city that was once a harbor for cultural and commercial exchanges between China and the western world. The boat, constructed with steel framing and coated with stucco, is a homage to this history. The white screens, made of technical fabric, are printed with facades of old buildings near the Guangzhou harbor, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage.

The library is covered with stucco, with beige terrazzo used for the curved steps to differentiate it from the floor below. The ceiling is painted white, and the three circular openings on the left are windows to the rooms behind. The rosette window, a popular architectural feature in Guangzhou in the 18th century, adds a touch of historical authenticity to the design.

The design process was not without its challenges. The library had a larger load than the original building, necessitating an increase in load requirements. The pandemic also made regular site visits difficult. However, these challenges were overcome, resulting in a design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The Satori Harbor is more than just a library; it is a space that encourages contemplation and enlightenment. As employees wander through the books, they experience moments of satori, a state of transcendental being in the practice of Taoism. The library is a testament to Vipshop's commitment to fostering a culture of learning and contemplation among its employees.