Utopia
Aalst, Belgium
Spanning nearly 86,000 square feet of a new building that extends to a 19th-century structure, the dual-purpose library and performing arts center reveals itself through an open layout and concrete floors that appear to float, due to an imaginative design from Netherlands-based Kaan Architecten that “merges the two souls of the building, creating a common family feeling,” says architect Giuseppe Mazzaglia. For the two-story library space, nearly 38-foot-high bookcases stretch floor to ceiling and are stacked with tomes donated by Aalst residents. Zigzagging stairs and exterior brickwork—an homage to the character of the Flemish city—add a sculptural presence and historical resonance to the impressive space.

Utopia

Sinan Books
Shanghai
Wutopia Lab’s latest offering to the literati is a bookstore set within a nearly century-old mansion. Created at the invitation of Shanghai Century Publishing Group and Yongye Group, the concept maps out the human mind through its four stories: The top floor study is the brain, for instance, while the third floor’s music room serves as the eyes and ears of the building. Further into Sinan is the subconscious, cleverly located in the basement, which is home to history and philosophy tomes that flank a tunnel-like structure. Restrained red hues at the entrance and varied green tones throughout lead to a gilded reading room—a hidden surprise meant to enlighten the mind.

Sinan Books