Header: William Tan
The Kinokuniya Bookstore in Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK), Jakarta, Indonesia, is an example of how lighting design can transform retail spaces. As the winner of the prestigious LIT Lighting Design Award for Retail Lighting Design, this project exemplifies how thoughtful illumination can elevate functionality and aesthetics in a commercial setting.
A legacy rooted in Japanese philosophy
Kinokuniya, the largest bookstore chain originating from Japan, is deeply intertwined with Japanese culture and philosophy. Since its founding in 1927 in Shinjuku, Tokyo, the brand has embraced the belief that everything holds meaning and value. This ethos guided the design of the Kinokuniya Bookstore PIK, where every interior element was carefully considered as a meaningful component of the overall design.
Reading under the skylight full of books
The lighting design, crafted by ENP Design Consultant and led by Endrawan Nimpuno Soesijanto, plays a pivotal role. Inspired by natural daylight, the design aims to replicate the serene reading ambiance under a skylight surrounded by books. Subtle curved cove lighting enhances the store’s modern aesthetic while providing a soft, natural glow that invites visitors to linger.
Brightening lighting levels were strategically applied to their backdrops to draw attention to the bookshelves. This creates a visually striking retail display, attracting visitors from afar. High contrast lighting with the highest possible Color Rendering Index (CRI) ensures that the bookshelves serve as focal points, making it easy for customers to browse and find their desired titles. A special reading area with custom integrated table lamps offers a comfortable space for perusing larger volumes.
Enhancing the atmosphere with innovative techniques
Integrated lighting on top of the bookshelves reflects off the ceiling, adding depth and ambiance conducive to reading. In the children’s section, tunable white linear lighting introduces a dynamic element, enhancing the playful and engaging atmosphere. These design choices improve the customer experience and align with the store’s commitment to sustainability.
Sustainability
Sustainability was a key consideration throughout the project. Large windows flood the bookstore with natural light, reducing the need for artificial illumination during the day. A carefully optimized lighting circuit and a timer system ensure that areas receiving ample daylight can turn their lights off to conserve energy. Additionally, the tunable white lighting system in the children’s area allows for precise light intensity control, further minimizing energy consumption.
The Kinokuniya Bookstore PIK is more than just a retail space; it’s an experience that merges cultural heritage, modern design, and sustainable practices. While the lighting design embraces contemporary aesthetics, it remains true to the Japanese philosophy of simplicity and meaningfulness. The result is a contemplative yet inviting space, where the interplay of light and shadow emphasizes material lightness and balance.
Project info
Lighting Design/Product Company: ENP Design Consultant
Lead Designers: Endrawan Nimpuno Soesijanto
Other Designers: Dyah Paramitha
Architecture Company: Kay Ngee Tan Architects
Interior Design Company: Kay Ngee Tan Architects
Client: Agung Sedayu Group
Photo Credits: William Tan
Other Credits: Eliani Lian (Lighting Product Specialist)
Completion Date: April 2023
Project Location: Central Market, Pantai Indah Kapuk, Jakarta, Indonesia
