The Huishan Bookstore features a gorgeous decorative style and succeeds in integrating ancient and modern elements. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn] |
The design of the store located on No.34 Xiuzhang Street, Huishan Ancient Town is a masterpiece by Han Xiaofeng, associate professor of School of Architecture at Nanjing's Southeast University, and earned him a provincial architecture award.
The house is divided into three functional areas of bookroom, a souvenirs shop and café. Connected by a stone bridge and fitted with antique decorations such as cyan bricks and wooden doors, the bookstore succeeds in turning the clock back to the imperial era.
"Every city should have a space for souls that enjoy reading," says Zhang who insists that the bookshop should not only stock good books but serve as a dynamic cultural space.
As an affirmation of this ideal, Huishan Bookstore provides an open area allowing readers to discuss and share freely. A number of writers, both established and up-and-coming, have come to share their latest works with members of the general public, activities which typically offer a rich insight into their experiences as writers.