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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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
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.
Photography: Wu JianQuan
Library building designs + School building designs
Western Academy Elementary School Library, Beijing China images / information received 140125 from v2com newswire
Location: Beijing, northern China, eastern Asia
Beijing Architecture
Contemporary Architecture in Beijing – architectural selection below:
North Yard, Haidian District
Design: CAA architects
photo © CAA
North Yard Collaborative Innovation Park
ZGC International Innovation Center, Zhongguancun area, Haidian District
Design: MAD Architects
photo : Arch Exist
ZGC International Innovation Center Beijing
TAOA 798 Studio, 798 Art District
Design: TAOA
TAOA 798 Studio, Beijing, China building
WAA Riverside Gastropub Space Design, Chaoyang
Architects: Fon Studio
WAA Riverside Gastropub, Chaoyang
Beijing Architectural Walking Tours
Chinese Architecture
Chinese Architecture Designs – architectural selection below:
China Architecture Designs – chronological list
Comments / photos for the Elementary School Library at The Western Academy of Beijing, China designed by Studio Vapore, page welcome.