Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan launches FLOR reading space at The Deli

Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan has launched FLOR, or "For Love of Reading", a new reading space at The Deli - Lobby Cafe designed to bring guests closer to books, ideas and reading. The launch coincided with the unveiling of a new culinary menu at the cafe, bringing together literature, food and culture in a shared setting.

The launch brought together authors, publishers, media representatives and members of the literary and hospitality communities. Sajjad Sharif, Executive Editor and one of the founding members of Prothom Alo, attended as the chief guest and officially unveiled FLOR through a ceremonial curtain drop alongside Karthi VK, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, according to a press release.

FLOR offers guests access to a curated collection of books across seven categories, including leadership, fiction and contemporary Bangladeshi literature. The initiative is designed as a space where visitors can take a break from their daily routines, enjoy a coffee and spend time reading.

The concept also includes a book exchange system, where guests can borrow a book and return it after reading. FLOR also follows a "Take One, Leave One" approach, allowing visitors to exchange books and contribute to the growing collection.

Guests at The Deli can explore the FLOR collection while enjoying artisanal coffee and handcrafted treats. The space also features a "Book Pick of the Day", highlighting a selected title to encourage visitors to discover new books.

Speaking at the launch, Karthi VK, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, said FLOR was created as an opportunity for people to step away from digital screens and reconnect with books. He said the initiative aims to provide a space where people can slow down, discover new ideas and connect with books, conversations and themselves.

Sajjad Sharif highlighted the importance of books in shaping individuals and societies. He said books preserve knowledge, history and human experience while encouraging curiosity, critical thinking, debate and imagination. He also said initiatives such as FLOR could help people reconnect with books and the wider world of knowledge and ideas.

FLOR also reflects Crowne Plaza's approach to creating experiences that bring together business, leisure, culture and personal interests. The initiative complements the brand's Crafted Meetings philosophy by offering guests and meeting participants a relaxed space to recharge and engage with books.

Alongside the FLOR launch, the hotel unveiled a new culinary menu at The Deli, featuring signature artisanal dishes and newly crafted coffee selections. The menu has been designed to complement the relaxed atmosphere of the space and encourage guests to spend time over coffee, food and conversation.

The launch concluded with an exclusive High Tea at Oasis Lounge, where authors, publishers, media representatives and invited guests engaged in discussions on literature, culture, food and the changing role of reading in contemporary life.

Through FLOR, Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan aims to create a space where people can pause, discover books, exchange ideas and reconnect with the enduring value of reading.