Hangzhou Zhongshuge Bookstore: A Forest of Knowledge

Designed by Xiang Li, this award-winning bookstore is a haven for book lovers.

The inspiration for Hangzhou Zhongshuge Bookstore came from the idea of a forest of books, symbolizing knowledge as indispensable as oxygen from trees. The bookstore's tree-like pillars stand tall, emitting the light of knowledge to every visitor. The ceiling, decorated with small lights, gives the impression of joyful elves guarding the forest. The ground-stationed desks are integrated into the forest, allowing people to read by sitting or standing.

What sets Hangzhou Zhongshuge Bookstore apart is its dedication to creating the most culturally artistic bookstore. The bookstore blends the definitions of books into every space, infusing the minds of readers with the sacredness of books and knowledge. The design is a testament to the bookstore's respect for books and knowledge.

The realization of this design was achieved through the use of transparent glass curtain walls covered with texts. The white pillars carrying books rise up straight to the sky, and under the reflection of the ceiling mirror, they seem to converse beyond time. The wall mirror doubles the transverse dimension, making the whole book space seem unbounded.

The bookstore also features a children's pavilion, designed as a book playground. Bookshelves are fashioned as playground facilities, including merry-go-rounds, roller coasters, hot air balloons, and pirate ships. This design gives children a joyful reading experience, while the floor of galaxy maps educates them about the galaxy.

Located within the bustling commercial center of Star Avenue, Binjiang District, adjacent to Qiantang River, Hangzhou Zhongshuge Bookstore was completed in April 2016. The design concept took full advantage of the local natural beauty of Hangzhou. The bookstore has always adhered to its initial desire to emerge as the most beautiful bookstore for readers.

The bookstore has overcome creative, technical, and research challenges to acknowledge readers the awareness of knowledge as indispensable as oxygen from trees in our lives. The bookstore has been awarded the Golden A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2017 for its outstanding design.