Sheng Wen Northern Book Town
Bookstore / Cultural Center
Sheng Wen Northern Book Town merges cultural and commercial spaces, reflecting Sheng Wen's role as a leading Northern China publisher. The design balances modern functionality with traditional Chinese influences, creating a vibrant cultural hub.
AUD Shanghai / China
Client: Sheng Wen
Place: Jinzhou, China
Size: 12 000 m²
Status: Built 2019
Layout
The 1st and 2nd floors combine a bookstore with a reading café and tea house, blending retail and leisure for an immersive literary experience. The 3rd and 4th floors host cultural events and book promotions, fostering community engagement and reinforcing Sheng Wen's identity as a cultural innovator.
Entrance
The entrance is a striking feature inspired by classical Chinese scroll texts, wrapped in bamboo-like textured panels. This creates a calming and transitional experience for visitors, setting a serene tone before they enter the vibrant bookstore.
Circulation
The circulation design mimics a small town's organic road network, flowing asymmetrically through the space. This approach enhances exploration and organically invites visitors to interact with various book categories. The use of topography and stairs adds depth and spatial intrigue, breaking the monotony of traditional bookstore layouts.
The Book Tower
A central sculpture serves as the heart of the space. The book tower symbolizes time and knowledge while providing a focal point for visitors. Its placement in the central void reinforces its significance and practicality as a landmark within the cultural center.
