Libraries
are something that has been revolving my head ever since I read some
writings by Kahn on the Exeter Academy Library. Part of my graduate
studies focused on how this typology has evolved during this last few
years, moving between the silent sanctuary of books we find at Exeter
and new public spaces like
OMA’s Seattle Library.
As the publishing/reading platforms are changing at an unprecedented speed (Web 2.0, eReaders and the Kindle, an upcoming “Hulu for Magazines”),
physical libraries have the challenge to be a place for research,
gathering, socializing… being built today, to house activities in the
future that we don´t even know yet.
A good example is the ongoing “Urban Mediaspace”, a project by danish practice
Schmidt / Hammer / Lassen Architects
which will be completed by 2014. The project is part of a large scale
urban renewal project to regenerate the docks area in Aarhus, Denmark.
A
big covered public space offers the flexibility needed for this kind of
program, enclosed by a transparent skin that connects the outside
public space with the new interior public space.
Project description and more images after the break. Thanks to Trine from SHL for sharing this project with us:
Urban
Mediaspace will be Scandinavia’s largest public library and belongs to
a new generation of libraries that are built for the feature and thus
enjoys a very flexible design. The building is situated at the mouth of
the Aarhus River in one of the most prominent sites of the Aarhus city
centre.
Urban
Mediaspace is part of a wider plan to regenerate the old cargo docks on
the harbor front, connecting it to the old city centre. The leading
idea is that of a covered city space. A large heptagonal slice hovers
above a glazed prism, which is resting on a square of ice flake shaped
stairs fanning out to the edge of the sea. The ice flakes create wide
spaces that are targeted for recreational activities and outdoor
events. The heptagon will contain the media house administration and
offices for rent. The glass building below is very transparent and
allows passers-by to see the activities in the building while the users
have a 360 degree panoramic view from the inside.
The
glass structure contains the various departments in staggered levels
over three floors. The departments cover children’s theatre,
interactive activities, DVD and games, books and magazines, events,
exhibitions, cafés and restaurants. Below ground, the large parking
area will be available to the while city. Part of the traffic along the
waterfront will run beneath the building. To boost public
transportation the new tram will have a stop here while access by bike
is also encouraged.
Client:
The municipality of Aarhus and Realdania
Area:
30,000sqm
Competition:
2009, 1st prize, restricted international competition
Status:
Construction period 2011-2014
Engineer:
Alectia Consulting Engineers
Landscape:
Kristine Jensens Studio
Other consultants:
Bosch & Fjord Interior Design & Art
The Danish School of Librarians by Dr. art Henrik Jochumsen og Dr. art Casper
Hvenegaard Rasmussen
from archdaily
