The design aims to blur the physical boundaries of the architecture, suggesting that the boundaries of knowledge and cognition are vague, yet the spiritual core is clear and resolute. Just as the bookstore's hybrid nature of commerce and culture dissolves the boundary between profit-oriented operations and public-spirited sharing. It appeals to an openness and accessibility to the public. The boundary does not represent rigidity; on the contrary, I believe it is filled with exploration and contention.
Approximately 400,000 custom-designed bricks are used throughout the bookstore, each crafted to meet specific spatial and functional requirements. Bookshelves, seating areas, and steps become one with the structure, with trapezoidal brick shapes ensuring smooth transitions between different elements.
Arched doorways rise in tiers like waves, reflecting the spread of knowledge, while the progressive steps within the bookstore metaphorically represent humanity's pursuit of truth. As visitors ascend these steps, their journey through books becomes both a physical and spiritual ascent.
Surrounded by a century-old cluster of Italian red brick buildings, Tianjin Zhongshuge draws on the historical and cultural significance of the material, which is rooted in Italian and Chinese architectural traditions.
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