Indian design firm Studio Hinge has unveiled the Forest of Knowledge, a captivating library nestled beneath a canopy of intricately woven wooden lattice in Mumbai. This remarkable space was crafted for the Cricket Club of India, a prestigious members-only establishment that has its roots in the 1930s, located within a stunning art deco structure in southern Mumbai.
Transforming the third floor of this historic building, Studio Hinge aimed to evoke the sensation of “reading beneath a tree” by reinterpreting the concrete columns as majestic tree trunks. Additionally, a previously utilized Zumba studio has been revitalized into a versatile area for book clubs, film screenings, and workshops.
“During one of the most severe and abrupt COVID lockdowns globally, the library’s design evolved, reflecting a collective desire for in-person connection and idea exchange,” the studio shared. “Conceptually, the design is inspired by nature, particularly the experience of reading under a tree, and it also draws from the enchanting canopies formed by the ficus and gulmohar trees lining the nearby street,” they elaborated.
Each concrete column is adorned with a steel frame wrapped in small wooden slats, integrating shelving and rising to form graceful arches across the ceiling, interconnected by wooden lattice in select areas. Curved bookshelves encircle the base of each column, while seating arrangements at the edges of the floor create diverse atmospheres for visitors. The library’s flooring features custom terrazzo tiles with a green “leaf” motif, complemented by circular wooden flooring at the base of each column.
“We ensured that no bookshelf in the open area exceeds 1.2 meters in height,” Studio Hinge explained. “This design choice maximizes natural light throughout the space and provides most adults with an unobstructed view while standing, all while fostering cozy, semi-private nooks for reading.”
The library offers a unique perspective for children, transforming the area between the circular bookshelves into a whimsical, almost maze-like adventure. In the multipurpose room, the ceiling features a flowing design of wooden planks, while the walls are adorned with cabinets to optimize storage space.