Along the southwest shore of Sinlong Lake in Chengdu, southwestern China, there is a bookstore that attracts attention with its unique concept. This bookstore, associated with the state conglomerate CITIC Group, offers visitors an underwater space designed for relaxation and reading.
The bookstore project began in 2018 after a winning creative design concept was selected in a competition organized by the company. However, the construction of this space was only completed four years later, in 2022. Following a recent renovation, the facility reopened on August 5, allowing guests to enjoy immersive reading amidst the tranquility of the lake.
Inside, one can drink coffee, watch aquatic plants and fish through partially submerged glass panels, relax on open lawns, and admire exhibitions of art and sculptures.
The bookstore building is integrated into the natural landscape of Sinlong Lake, which is an environmental protection zone. The rear part of the bookstore even connects directly to the slopes, following the contours of the grassy area.
The total area of the attraction is 500 square meters and has a rectangular linear shape. The interior features a minimalist aesthetic, achieved through the use of textured concrete and wood, which contributes to creating a quiet and intimate environment.
The architectural design was developed by the studio MUDA-Architects, which embodied the structure under the concept of 'reading in nature.' The project aims to reproduce the image of a 'book falling from the sky' through a curved roof resembling a turning page. This idea won a competition involving 249 projects.
The exterior roof, clad in titanium-zinc panels, mimics the texture of fish scales under sunlight. This material also has the property of self-oxidation, which helps naturally restore minor scratches.
The transparent wall facing the lake was designed to account for water level fluctuations during floods. It consists of four layers of high-strength tempered glass, which prevents any leaks or seepage.
Upon entering the main part, on the south side of the bookstore, visitors encounter a reception gallery intended for art exhibitions. Next is a cafe with tables and chairs along the entire underwater glass wall, where one can drink coffee while admiring the serenity of the underwater environment, naturally accompanied by a good book.
The underwater reading area is the central and most visited part of the bookstore. To reach it, one must descend several steps into a lower room where the transparent wall curves around the space approximately one meter below the lake level. Here, one can sit and read, observing swimming fish, submerged stones, and aquatic vegetation 'dancing' underwater, much like in an aquarium.
On the east wall of the building is a narrow corridor equipped with windows of various shapes and a small horizontal slit at eye level. This space is intended for moments of meditation and self-reflection, where the calmness of the lake serves as a companion.
Additionally, the bookstore has a relaxation area with wooden decks at two entrances. In the depth, the lawn extends along the slope, formed by various green layers, creating a landscape reminiscent of famous scenes from Studio Ghibli films.