Zhongshuge Bookstore,
project: X+Living
Since 2010, Chinese studio X+LIVING has completed more than 20 projects for the Zhongshuge bookstore chain. In 2023, in the Chinese city of Huai'an, Jiangsu province, another space was created with a futuristic interior designed by the studio's founder, Li Xiang.
Zhongshuge Bookstore in Huai "an, in China's Jiangsu province - the bookstore becomes a space symbolizing a "space-time tunnel" that connects different dimensions of literature and knowledge
photo: SFAP © X+Living
A cosmic bookstore in Jiangsu
Upon crossing the threshold of Zhongshuge Bookstore, located in a skyscraper, visitors experience a change in the scale of space, as if they were inside huge astronomical instruments. The space, laid out over two levels, is filled with monumental bookcases of varying sizes that take the forms of planets, concentric rings and astronomical instruments such as globes and astrolabes, alluding to cosmic motifs.
A bookstore in Huai "an, in China's Jiangsu province - a reflective interior ceiling optically enlarges the space
Photo: SFAP © X+Living
These structures, along with a spherical staircase, connect the two levels. The lower floor houses a café and reading space, while a children's corner is located on the upper floor.
Zhongshuge Bookstore in Huai "an, in China's Jiangsu province - a projection of two floors
© X+Living
A bookstore that connects
the past with the future
Each bookshelf holds books from different fields. Other literature is placed on shelves that stretch the full height of the rounded walls. As a result, walking through the bookstore, visitors get the impression that the books reach from the floor to the ceiling.
A bookstore in Huai "an, in China's Jiangsu province - a dark color scheme dominates inside
Photo: SFAP © X+Living
In the architectural concept, the bookstore becomes a space symbolizing a "space-time tunnel" that connects different dimensions of literature and knowledge.
From ancient times to the present, mankind has constantly explored the universe - from armillary spheres to space rockets, from stargazing to interstellar travel. Books have witnessed each of these eras.
- says the X+Living team
Zhongshuge Bookstore in Huai "an, in China's Jiangsu province - bookshelves take the forms of planets, concentric rings and astronomical instruments,
Photo: SFAP © X+Living
cosmic matter in architecture
The walls and spherical structures are made of black wood, while the details and floor are made of dark marble. The dominant dark color scheme of the interior enhances the impression of infinity, alluding to cosmic motifs. The space is illuminated by natural light that penetrates through the glass facade, as well as by lighting mounted in concentric rings, creating a stark contrast between darkness and brightness.
Zhongshuge Bookstore in Huai "an, in China's Jiangsu province - a glass wall blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior
Space without boundaries
- optical illusion and natural light
A glass wall, through which the sky can be seen, blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior, enhancing the impression of being in outer space. Mirrors on the ceilings optically enlarge the space, adding depth.
Zhongshuge Bookstore in Huai "an, in China's Jiangsu province - exterior view
Photo: SFAP © X+Living
The design of the bookstore is not just about creating a functional space, but also inviting momentary reflection. The architecture of this space goes beyond functionality, becoming a medium that encourages visitors to take a break from everyday life and look at it from a new perspective.
Elaborated: Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of studio X+Living.
