This Stunning, Futuristic Library Can Hold 1.2 Million Books

China’s newest architectural marvel has been unveiled.

The Tianjin Binhai Library, named for the city of the same name, has astonished architecture fans and book lovers alike with its stunning design features. The library is designed to welcome light, with each bookshelf doubling as a louver.

According to MVRDV, the glass structure was built in the hopes of becoming a junction point for the central business district, old town, residential and commercial areas, and the government quarter. Scroll down to see more of the spectacular library.

The Tianjin Binhai Library is located in the Binhai Cultural District, northeast China.

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Dutch architecture firm MVRDV designed the library in collaboration with Tianjin Urban Planning and Design Institute.

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The five-story, 33,700-square-meter is fitted with curved bookcases that are easily accessible.

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Striking as it is functional, the library can house up to 1.2 million books.

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In the library’s center sits a spherical auditorium dubbed “The Eye.”

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The structure was built as part of a larger plan to provide a cultural district for the city.

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It took three years to complete the project.

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In addition to the auditorium, the first and seconds floors will house reading rooms and lounge spaces.

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The top floors will be dedicated to offices, conference rooms, and computer facilities.

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The interior’s angles and curves are meant to stimulate reading, walking, and discussing.

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The building will bridge the city park and the cultural district.

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The project is MVRDV’s second completed design in Tianjin.

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MVRDV’s impressive portfolio includes the glass façade of Chanel Amsterdam, a Jenga-style tower in Vienna, and Seoul's Skygarden.

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Tianjin Library is part of 120,000-square-meter masterplan being carried out by MVRDV, Bernard Tschumi Architects, Bing Thom Architects, HH Design, and GMP.

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