A Look Inside Chanel's New Contemporary Art Library
The first of its kind in mainland China.
A major new space for contemporary art was unveiled in Shanghai by none other than fashion favorite Chanel. The Espace Gabrielle Chanel is mainland China’s first public library dedicated to contemporary art and a gorgeous new addition to the city.
The 18,000-square-foot library, located in Shanghai’s Power Station of Art (PSA), comprises more than 50,000 books and audio editions, making it a major new hub for creative discovery. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kazunari Sakamoto, the interior evokes a sense of balance and flow within the former factory, including a maze-like “valley of books” that echoes the surrounding Huangpu River. Natural landscapes and flowing energy juxtapose with the industrial shell of the building, resulting in an airy and open space.
Alongside the library, a new exhibition hall, design centre, theatre and terrace overlooking the river add a sense of beauty so quintessentially Chanel. The project marks the first major initiative as part of Chanel’s Culture Fund in Asia, and continues the brand’s focused energy on strategic partnerships rather than building standalone spaces. Now with 50 leading institutions globally, including Seoul’s Leeum Museum of Art, Centre Pompidou in Paris and London’s National Portrait Gallery, the brand is fostering artistic experimentation and public engagement. The space is now open to visit.
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