Ebetsu Tsutaya Books Book Store

Ebetsu Tsutaya Books Book Store is an innovative architectural masterpiece and lifestyle-oriented bookstore located in Ebetsu City, Hokkaido, Japan, completed in 2018 and recognized with a Bronze A' Design Award in Architecture, Building and Structure Design category. This remarkable 4,423-square-meter facility, designed by architect Hikohito Konishi, embodies the concept of A Forest Library to Enjoy a Slow-Life through its thoughtful integration with the surrounding natural environment. The structure features three distinct blocks themed around Mind, Life, and Food, strategically positioned across a 140-meter span to create five engaging zones through clever displacement of plan and layout. The building's exterior showcases locally sourced bricks from three regional manufacturers, creating a striking contrast with the adjacent forest while ensuring aesthetic longevity through its combination with extruded cement panel base. The interior design emphasizes raw materials, incorporating concrete finished flooring, exposed structural steel, and wood-steel composite furniture, all working in harmony to create a tranquil atmosphere. The space is uniquely configured to offer visitors carefully framed views of the surrounding forest, establishing a profound connection between the built environment and nature. Since its completion, the facility has transcended its commercial function to become a vital cultural hub, hosting approximately 500 community events annually and serving as a testament to innovative architectural design that successfully balances aesthetic appeal with social functionality.

Author: Adam Dawson

Keywords: architectural design, lifestyle bookstore, cultural hub, sustainable architecture, community space, forest integration

SOURCES:
https://competition.adesignaward.com/94879

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