Tianjin Zhongshuge is a metaphor for the blurred boundaries of knowledge

Tianjin Zhongshuge. A metaphor for the blurred boundaries of knowledge

The physical boundaries of the Tianjin Zhongshuge library are blurred as are the limits of knowledge, while the spiritual core is firm and resolute: the project's invitation is to read in this architecture a metaphor of the world in which the library is located, between commerce and culture, between business and community service, between tradition and innovation

Design to remember the importance of slowness. The brick as a symbol

Li Xiang leads the team of his studio X+Living in visionary and innovative interior design and architecture projects. For the Tianjin Zhongshuge library located in the Italian-style district of Tianjin, he chooses to celebrate the brick as a traditional element, a symbol of craftsmanship, innovating its use, almost like a sculptural element. The meticulous carving and positioning of the bricks aims to remind people that, even in our fast-paced era, it is essential to slow down to find the substance and stability of one's center

Fluid space in a visual effect between the virtual and the real

A carving operation with blades on the material commonly known as compact and solid, the brick wall, creates a stunning perception of the library environment. A visual effect between the virtual and the real makes the space fluid, dynamic, enriched by unexpected transparencies. In the heart of the building, a dark blue steel slab that extends for three levels brings the sea that bathes the city into the library. Like waves, large curved ripples embody the arched doors and symbolize the spread of knowledge through books

Total integration between architecture and design

To enter and immerse oneself in the library, one must climb steps that, inside, create a dance of solid waves. This ascent symbolizes the incessant human search for truth. Inside, the steps transform into seating and shelving units in a total integration of architecture and design. The entire main body of the building is made with only two materials: brick and metal. The classic warmth of the bricks and the industrial strength of the steel create a fascinating and harmonious visual tension

Two materials expressing the spirit of construction: brick and metal

No longer hidden by finishes and claddings, brick and metal are here a direct expression of the spirit of construction. In the Tianjin Zhongshuge, 400,000 bricks are carefully and precisely assembled, assuming a rich variety of expressions. This work, where the boundaries of architecture are blurred by construction techniques, is a metaphor for human knowledge, also with always indefinite limits, which is why we can seek insights and anchors in the wisdom contained in books

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