Chinese architect creates the ultimate quiet reading space with 5,000-square-foot library miles from anywhere on a secluded beach
- Sanlian Public Library lets visitors enjoy stunning sea views
- People coming from across country to read books in unique setting
- Architect based design on beach pebble and uses natural light
- Relaxing on the beach with a book to read has long been a favourite pastime of holiday-makers.
Now architects in China have taken the concept one step further by designing the Sanlian Public Library on secluded sands in Qinhuangdao City. Recently crowned 'China's loneliest library', visitors have to walk to reach the building as there are no roads nearby.
Its distinctive shape stands alone on the near-untouched beach, as the sea laps the shore just metres away.
The library, which only opened this month is already proving very popular with people coming from across the country to borrow a book.
'I am a sound designer and work in animation and documentaries,' she said.
'This place is very quiet and I hope to find inspiration here.'
Architect Dong Gong was behind the distinctive design, which stands alone on the seafront in Changli.
Lonely: The building was designed to convey a sense of the quietness of the secluded beach and inspired by its pebbles
He said he was struck by a deep sense of loneliness when he visited the distant location but felt a 'strong sense of presence', and inspired by the stones lying nearby.
There are books available on the first and second floor, with visitors reading quietly while getting to admire the stunning sea views.
He wanted to make use natural light by installing plenty of skylights and light tubes. The effect peaks at about 1.30pm each day as light floods into the building, creating incredible shadowy effects.
Water and electricity are piped to the building underground while the building had to be damp-proofed to ensure it is not prone to damage by the sea.
Light reading: The library was designed to make the most of the natural light on the beachfront
Unusual: The library can only be reached on foot with these people walking across the sands to get in.
