CONCEPT
The Book Place reimagines the traditional reading experience by merging the independent exploration of a library with the warmth and vibrancy of a local bookstore. Designed as a membership-based space with quiet reading rooms and curated book-drink pairings, The Book Place offers an environment where visitors can linger, connect, and immerse themselves in literature.
ROLE
Team Project / Experience & Brand Designer
TIMELINE
Spring 2025 / 12 weeks
PARTNER
Arya Kirpekar
PROBLEM: Traditional bookstores and libraries offer discovery, but often lack personalization and community. Readers crave not just books, but experiences that connect stories to their lives, inspire conversation, and create a sense of belonging.
APPROACH: Surveyed 80+ readers to uncover habits, preferences, and barriers to engagement. Explored how pairings (drinks, music, spaces) could enhance the act of reading.
INSIGHTS: 75% of our readers enjoy reading in public, highlighting the importance of designing a social, welcoming space. Additionally, 76% of readers rely on personal book recommendations, reinforcing the idea that community and shared discovery are central to the reading experience. Readers are seeking spaces that feel warm, familiar, and experiential, where books can be enjoyed not only as objects to read but as gateways to multi-sensory, memorable experiences.
