
tiny 24-hour bookstore by SZ-architects crowns former prison watchtower in china
the project reclaims a derelict structure and repurposes it as a publicly accessible reading space for the surrounding neighborhood.
55 stories
bookstores, retail destinations where books are sold, are often interpreted by architects with sculptural volumes, material illusions, and heritage transformations, redefining the way we experience spaces for reading. while interiors may serve as intimate zones for quiet contemplation, surfaces are often expressive and performative, used for the display of books.

the project reclaims a derelict structure and repurposes it as a publicly accessible reading space for the surrounding neighborhood.



sitting at the foot of a mountain in shenzen, china, the architecture features three openings that collect changes in color, light, and sound coming from the surroundings.

your own online design shop — no sales commission collected










KOKUYO DESIGN AWARD 2027 deadline: october 7th, 2026