The Novel Bookstore

Located in city centre of Newcastle Upon Tyne in England. Surrounded by exceptional classic Victorian, Georgian buildings with significant historical background impacts to the locality and people. The objective is to recreate an open plan interior space which allows free flow movement for visitors by using layout strategy to encourage any passerby to engage in the act of novel reading and appreciate the valuation of stories. As the building is Grade II listed, it is important to protect the original envelopes and skins of both exterior and interior while maintaining the optimum usage of the space. Interior layout is a response to the Grainger Market’s multi-entrance, intersecting walkways, and behavior of local passersby. From the top, the space is divided into two areas; functional, which caters the staircase and seating area; promotional, which serves the main purpose of the building. Offset glass main entrance blurring the boundary of outside-inside concept and stimulates passersby entering the building liberally. Bookshelves and ceiling design referring to the façade and cornices of Georgian Architecture. Charred timber surface on features increasing the drama of the novel bookstore. Light-looking staircase added ensuring visitors to freely move and explore the space.