UBC Bookstore

The original façade of the UBC bookstore was uninviting and unassuming by the way retreat from the newly renovated pedestrian walkways.

Now it is a welcoming, open and well-lit space with a wall of fritted glass facing the main thoroughfare of University Boulevard and East Mall.

The glass consists of alphabetically ordered words provided by Bookstore users, acting as dappling shadows in the space’s interior. This clever yet subtle design feature enhances the visitors’ experience in the space.

Photo by Ema Peter Photography

The space consists of UBC’s bookstore, café, shop, and informal gathering spaces supporting social interaction and the exchange of ideas more spontaneously.