Gleebooks

A delicate restoration and transformation of this Heritage building and literary institution in Glebe. Essentially, the architectural approach was the skilful reimagining of the three elements of heritage, hospitality and retail.

The existing Italianate Victorian hipped roof and timber framed building has been carefully restored. The sculptural rear extension houses a licensed café serving both the public and the first-floor function space which has launched many wonderful stories for many amazing authors over the years.

Working closely with the Gleebooks owners and senior staff, the fit out is both playful and sophisticated. They briefed us on the spirit of the shop, as a book shop for all, inclusive, not alienating and we understood that the core values of the fit out will also represent the core values of Gleebooks. Design cues are taken from the curve of a hardbound book’s spine while the concrete edge detail to rear laneway references the micro stepping of the leaves of an open book. The design decision to build the new bookshelves from plywood was made on the basis that plywood is essentially laminated layers of 3mm timber which accord with the pages of paper of a book housed within those shelves.

A detailed and honest approach adopted by all to the alteration and addition with care, thoughtfulness and joy, like the name suggests – ‘Glee’.