The Forest of Knowledge - A Library for The Cricket Club of India

The new library at Mumbai's Cricket Club of India reimagines the role of a library in the digital age, transforming it from a repository of books into a vibrant "house of knowledge" that encourages learning, interaction and community engagement. Conceived during the Covid-19 lockdown, the project was inspired by the simple experience of reading beneath a tree and draws heavily on the canopy of ficus and gulmohur trees that line the neighbouring streets.

Located within the club's administrative building, the library houses more than 55,000 books, including rare and archival collections. The design recreates the feeling of reading outdoors by transforming existing concrete columns into tree-like structures, complete with circular timber bookshelves and branching forms that weave overhead. Natural materials, abundant daylight and terrazzo flooring patterned to resemble scattered leaves further reinforce the connection to nature.

A key objective was to encourage members not only to borrow books but also to spend time in the space. To achieve this, the designers converted an underused adjacent studio into a flexible cultural venue for book clubs, author talks, film screenings and workshops. This multipurpose area can still function as a dance studio when required, helping the library become a social and educational hub for the club community.

Careful attention was paid to accessibility, light and user experience. Low bookshelves maintain clear sightlines and maximise natural light, while creating intimate reading nooks and a playful, maze-like environment for children. Enlarged, operable windows improve daylight and cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning. Sustainably sourced FSC-certified timber is used throughout, reflecting the project's commitment to environmental responsibility.

The result is a contemporary library that successfully blends architecture, nature and community, revitalising reading culture while providing a welcoming space for people to gather, learn and connect.

• ARCHITECTS: Studio Hinge
• YEAR BUILT: 2023
• SIZE: 3000 sq ft - 5000 sq ft
• BUDGET: $100K - 500K