Although our world contains some astonishing libraries (as evident from this photo collection), Shanghai studio X L-M used the design idea of bookstore which is something truly unique.
The Yangzhou Zhongshuge bookshop uses black mirrored flooring and arched shelves to give an impression of an endless tunnel of books.
The shelves swirl and reach ceiling of the corridor. Thanks to the reflective floor below, the passage seems like an infinite continuation of books.
The designers say that they have created this masterpiece after getting inspiration from the Zhen Yuan’s waterside and arched bridges.
“In the past, guided by water, many literati and poets visited and gathered here,” said XL-Muse. “The bridges used to be the guiding factor of culture and commerce, and they represent that the bookstore is the bond between humans and books at the same time.”
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Yangzhou Zhongshuge’s book shelves don’t meet at the top. Instead, the concave shelving is parted by a lightning bolt-shaped gap through the middle of the ceiling. This lightning bolt is reflected on the floor, acting like a river and welcoming customers into the store.
The lobby is based on 1,000 square metre space and includes a reading room and a village-themed kids’ area.
The reading room features artistic sculptures and white curving pillars that arch inwards from the ceiling.
The shelves are also sloped gently to complement the curved pillars, which constitute of traditional vertical styles and black metal stands.
The children’s books section comprises of shelves taking forms of houses, towers, clouds, and even a hot air balloon.
The wooden shelving is illuminated by a host of bright colors, with the ceiling lights arranged to create a starry sky.
