Western Academy Elementary School Library building, Beijing architecture, Chinese design photos

Western Academy Elementary School Library in Beijing

14 January 2025

Design: Studio Vapore

Location: Beijing, People’s Republic of China

Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing China

Photos by Wu JianQuan

Western Academy Elementary School Library, China

Beijing-based design office Studio Vapore has collaborated with the Western Academy of Beijing to renovate its elementary school library. The project reimagines the library as a multifunctional learning space designed to inspire creativity and exploration, while supporting modern educational needs.

Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing

A library designed for exploration
The renovation focuses on transforming the library into an engaging and flexible environment. Inspired by timeless children’s stories from around the world, the design features themed areas defined by custom platforms of varying heights. These platforms serve as reading nooks, quiet study spaces, and organizational zones for the library’s diverse book collections.

Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing

Highlights include a bamboo forest platform and a village-themed area with a hut and cave designed for group activities and storytelling. A central feature of the library is the Tibetan-inspired storytelling tower, which leads to a hang-out net for students.

Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing China

Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing China

Modular, circular bookshelves allow for flexible layouts, accommodating both small group work and individual study. The library’s color palette, influenced by traditional Chinese temples, adds warmth and harmony to the space.

Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing China

Interactive features and thoughtful design
Interactive elements such as whispering tubes, periscopes, and hidden crystals introduce playful and tactile experiences, encouraging curiosity and engagement. Acoustic panels ensure the library remains conducive to simultaneous activities, while maintaining a serene atmosphere for focused learning.

Western Academy Elementary School Library China Western Academy Elementary School Library China

A collaborative vision for education
This project reflects Studio Vapore’s commitment to creating functional, inspiring educational spaces that align with evolving needs of schools. The reimagined library is now a dynamic hub where students can explore, learn, and grow in an environment designed to foster creativity and imagination.

Western Academy Elementary School Library China Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing

Western Academy Elementary School Library in Beijing, China – Building Information

Design firm: Studio Vapore – http://www.i-taoa.com/

Project Name: Elementary School Library at The Western Academy of Beijing
Client: Western Academy of Beijing
Location: Beijing, China
Scope: Interior Renovation
Program: Educational
Size: 1000sqm

Designer: studio vapore
Design Director: Erica Borsa
Design Team: Erica Borsa, Tina Tian, Yumi Zhang, Hongyu Yu
MEP: Yin Xueqin
Acoustic Engineering: Delhom Acoustics
Structural Engineering: Xiaodong Li
Lighting Consultant: Beijing Mostar
General Contractor: Beijing Chencheng Architectural Decoration
Custom Furniture Contractor: LMFU Furniture

Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing Western Academy Elementary School Library China

About Studio Vapore
Studio Vapore is a multidisciplinary design studio based in Beijing, China, specializing in architecture, interiors, and product design. Founded by Italian Architect Erica Borsa in 2021, the studio integrates storytelling with technical expertise to create thoughtful and imaginative spaces. With a diverse team and a focus on educational design, Studio Vapore has collaborated with public and private schools across China, including the Western Academy of Beijing.

Western Academy Elementary School Library Beijing China

Photography: Wu JianQuan

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Western Academy Elementary School Library, Beijing China images / information received 140125 from v2com newswire

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