The zero-waste design bookstore in Dubai A bookstore for pre-loved books is inspiring sustainable creativity and reading at the same time

If you are a book lover, who also cares about the environment, and is looking to spend time in a cosy bookstore that speaks the story of sustainability, then a visit to Bookends, a pre-loved bookstore in Dubai, should be on your list. The zero waste design, in simple words, works on the principles of ‘nothing is a waste’. No wonder, the design philosophy at Bookends is that no page, no story can ever go to waste. Walk in and you will come across a wall that is plastered with discarded sheets of paper from tattered books, and right below the wall, the counter is artistically made using the discarded book covers, the half-torn and threadbare books, and more. Wondering what makes for ‘chandeliers’ here? The battered books have been turned into paper fans as they hang pretty here. And yes, you will spot some pallets turned into shelves here. 

Local author Purva Grover, who is the Brand Ambassador for Bookends, said, “You don’t have to be an activist or environmentalist to save the planet, a storyteller would work just fine.” Purva’s first book, The Trees Told Me So (2017) ties in with the philosophy well. “On a few occasions, we came across books that weren’t in a condition to be sold or added to the shelves, and that’s where stemmed the idea of adorning the store with the bits and pieces of the ripped, in shreds books,” said Somia Anwar and Grace Karim, owners, Bookends. 

Find attached a few images that highlight the design concept, and yes, do let us know if you’d like to visit the aesthetically done store yourself! Happy to assist with interviews with the owners of the store.

Where: BOOKENDS, Dubai Digital Park, Building A3, Silicon Oasis. Dubai

Timings: 10 am to 10 pm, seven days a week

Get social with Bookends: https://www.instagram.com/bookendsae/