Revitalizing Tradition: Baoding Xinhua Bookstore

Yi Chen and Muchen Zhang's Award-Winning Design Breathes New Life into China's Iconic Bookstore

Chen and Zhang's design philosophy is rooted in their keen observation and introspection of society. Their goal was to create a space that invites the soul and spirit to rest, a habitat that connects people and books in various scenarios. They achieved this through a design language that is simple, tranquil, humble, and low-profile, transforming the bookstore into a unique ecosystem.

The designers' approach to this project was to use the simplest and most natural materials, such as wood and cement, to create a serene and inviting environment. The bookstore, spanning 350 square meters, is a testament to their belief in the power of simplicity and natural design. The space is designed to be a spiritual habitat where people's hearts can settle down, a utopia for book lovers.

One of the unique features of this design is its human touch. The designers understood that the souls enveloped in the books are the real owners of this bookstore. They designed the space to express the relationship between the readers and books through space scenes that are simple, tranquil, humble, and low-profile. The bookstore also hosts readers club activities, forums, and speeches, further fostering a sense of community among book lovers.

The project, which took six months to design and construct, presented several challenges. The Xinhua Bookstore, established in 1937, is the most well-known bookstore in China. However, its image was old and conservative, with a strong political tint. The challenge was to break down this image and reconstruct the brand to align with contemporary society. Chen and Zhang successfully overcame this challenge, creating a space that is both modern and respectful of the bookstore's history.

Chen and Zhang's design for the Baoding Xinhua Bookstore is a masterclass in interior design. Their approach, which emphasizes simplicity, tranquility, and the human touch, has created a space that is not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. It is a space that invites the soul to rest, a sanctuary for book lovers, and a testament to the power of design.