Canal Library: A Multifunctional Sales Office with a Cultural Twist

Lian ZiCheng and Daguan Design Association's Innovative Approach to Commercial Space

The Canal Library is a testament to the creative prowess of Lian ZiCheng and the Daguan Design Association. Drawing inspiration from the project's relationship with the land, the design team transformed the adjacent Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal into the main axis of their design. This canal, with over 2,000 years of history, became a medium for connecting spaces, and its cultural and historical treasures inspired the idea of transforming a commercial project into a cultural library.

What sets the Canal Library apart is its unique combination of local geographical characteristics with historical culture, presented through modern and technological methods. The design process involved planning two sets of plans after the sales office's sale mission, thus creating a multifunctional sales office that promotes environmental protection and the reuse of commercial space.

The realization of the Canal Library involved the use of wood and warm lighting to simulate flowing water, connecting different spaces. The lobby features countless LED lights, programmed to reflect the Canal's different visual effects, further strengthening the design theme. The cross bookshelf, combined with the natural theme of the honeycomb bar, has become a cultural embodiment, enhanced by the modern technology of the 270-degree surround cinema.

The design process was not without its challenges. The most significant difficulty was creating a strong correlation between the plot and the surrounding historical landscape. The design team had to find a way to incorporate the 500-year-old Beijing-Hangzhou Canal into the sales office, allowing future community users to feel the history of 500 years ago. The control of the LED effect was another challenge, requiring continuous communication with technical personnel to achieve the desired effect.

Despite these challenges, the Canal Library stands as a testament to innovative design and the potential of commercial spaces. It is a project that not only respects the environment but also brings new social responsibility to interior designers. The Canal Library is a shining example of how design can transform spaces, create connections, and bring history to life.