Project Idea:
The main idea is to create a cozy, multifunctional, culturally rich space that combines the functions of a bookstore, a quiet reading area, a cultural event platform, and a place of inspiration. “Ye” Bookstore goes beyond commerce — it supports Ukrainian literature and culture. The space should encourage informal communication, literary immersion, and attract a wide range of visitors — from avid readers to families with children.

Problem Statement:
The bookstore is located in a basement space with limited natural lighting and requires significant improvements in ventilation, zoning, spatial organization, and overall atmosphere. The key challenge is to make this underground environment feel bright, welcoming, and inspiring — ensuring that visitors feel comfortable and engaged. It is also essential to harmonize its commercial function (book sales) with its cultural mission (presentations, events, literary gatherings).

Project Goals:
Improve microclimate and lighting in the basement space.

Efficiently zone the 294 m² area for better navigation, reading, and leisure.

Create a unique atmosphere that combines the tranquility of a library, the warmth of home, and the dynamic spirit of a cultural hub.

Emphasize Ukrainian identity while remaining open to global context.

Design a space that is welcoming to children, parents, students, writers, and event guests.

Functional Zones (List):
Entrance zone

Reception / Checkout

Bestsellers section

Thrillers / Detective fiction

New releases

Main book hall (various genres)

Children’s zone

Children’s books & stationery

Souvenir / Gift zone

Cafeteria

Reading zone

Presentation zone / Stage

Exhibition area

Office / Utility room

Staff restroom

Walkways and navigational corridors

Design Concept:
Style: Modern with minimalistic touches and a “cultural home” feeling

Color palette: Dominated by red (brand identity), beige, cream tones for warmth, and black for graphic contrast

Materials: Natural wood (reception), exposed concrete or brick columns with greenery accents, soft textile furniture, matte porcelain tile flooring

Lighting: Smart artificial lighting system with warm tones, shelf highlights, and reading-friendly zones

Atmosphere: Inspiring, peaceful, intellectually engaging — a space that gently encourages interaction and reflection

Social Context:
This is not just a shop — it's a cultural space, a welcoming hub for those who value knowledge, reading, and dialogue. That is the core of the “Ye” Bookstore’s identity, and the interior design must reflect and reinforce this mission in every detail.

The flooring in the bookstore is made of matte porcelain stoneware in warm shades of red, beige, cream, and black, creating a cozy and comfortable atmosphere for visitors. For technical areas, a practical and durable self-leveling floor KE "Hobby 221-Pour" is used.

The ceiling is a shadow-mount stretch ceiling with a matte finish in color RAL 7004 (gray shade). The walls are treated with putty and painted with warm beige paint in color RAL 1001. In some areas, there is a suspended drywall ceiling painted white in color RAL 9016, covering an area of approximately 24 m².

The interior includes various functional zones with appropriate furniture and decor, where soft textile materials in red and white tones prevail, providing comfort and attractiveness for reading, relaxation, and cultural events.