mobile beach library by matali crasset in istres, france

mobile beach library by matali crasset in d’istres, france
steel structure with tarpaulins
weight: 300 lbs
235 x 540 x 620 cm
image © philippe piron

seaside towns are always dotted with brightly colored kiosks occupied by frozen treat and snack vendors, parasol and lounge chair rental outlets, or those selling beach essentials, ensuring your stay on the coast is comfortable and relaxing. but, a trip to the shore side is not complete without a good book, so matali crasset has made a mobile library, which can easily be integrated amongst the other shops, offering beach goers a selection of more than 300 titles to choose from–a simple way to generate the pleasure of reading. ‘bibliothèque de plage’ is a humble structure where the library is housed at its centre, covered by a large canopy to protect the visitors and the volumes from the sun. three alcoves are found along the outer perimeter of the space, inviting people to grab something to read, and rest in the shade of their shelter. the collection of books available, include novels which are close to the designer herself, which she has included to help clarify her intentions behind the realization of the project including: ‘things’ by george perec, ‘the poetics of space’ by gaston bachelard and ‘eat me’ by agnes desarthes. the beach library can be found in d’istres, france on the shores of la romaniquette.

dates of operation:
june 29 to september 1, 2013
weekend of 7 and 8 september 2013
weekend of 14 and 15 september 2013

the library is housed at the centre of the structure with three alcoves surrounding it
image © philippe piron

beach goers can rest in the shade of the alcoves while enjoying one of the hundreds of titles available
image © philippe piron

image © philippe piron

the library can be found on la romaniquette beach in istres, france
image © philippe piron

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