Readings Chadstone, Australia

The lighting design for the bookstore, Readings, exemplifies the harmonious blend of functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic innovation.

The project harnesses illumination to enhance atmosphere and guide customer behaviour. While the emphasis was placed on reducing the environmental impact including having many of the luminaires in a ‘natural’ raw finish, we never lost site that lighting supports the core function of the space: reading and buying books.

The hallmark is the 23 by 3.4-metre paper lantern, made entirely from misprinted books. This was a direct response to client feedback that significant book waste was an ongoing issue.

The sustainable feature was inspired by the traditional Japanese papermaking technique of Nagashi-zuki, with custom pulp baths and frames engineered for the project. This process was a year in development. Countless iterations of light testing were required to achieve a balance between design, light output, and energy efficiency, resulting in a stunning, functional centrepiece.

Remarkably, the lantern’s light output was so effective that no supplementary lighting was needed in the zone, resulting in significant energy savings. It was engineered for disassembly, and replacement ensuring longevity, and is also recyclable.

Linear lighting, integrated into the joinery, illuminates the bookshelves while subtly guiding movement. A wall wash effect adds depth and warmth to the design, while the curved shroud wall lights near the shopfront illustrate form meeting function. This thoughtful approach to lighting not only complements the industrial aesthetic but underscores the project’s small footprint ethos, making lighting the showcase of the overall design narrative.