Work submitted for the competition
"Best Diploma Architecture".
The work proposes a new look at the library - as an object for people, not books. The design task was to create an object in response to the problem of the public's loss of interest in libraries.
shape of the solid | functional scheme
© Aleksandra Stępniowska
It was crucial to define the problem and determine the direction in which libraries of the future should go. The main objectives became the introduction of catering in the building, adequate lighting and ventilation, to move away from the familiar stereotypical buildings with a similar function. Another goal was to ensure the proximity of greenery and openness of the facility. Also important in shaping the functional layout was the decision to abandon the large-scale library hall in favor of smaller, categorized rooms that bring together smaller groups of people with similar interests.
site development plan
© Aleksandra Stępniowska
Huge library workloads, loss of interest in reading and technological developments also prompted a rethinking of how the facility should operate and what services it should offer. For this reason, the concept has been based on digitizing knowledge and cataloging it. Spaces for books are to be given back to the people, and the facility is additionally equipped with electronic equipment and computer rooms.
longitudinal cross-section
© Aleksandra Stępniowska
The design of the building praises the essence of acquiring knowledge, and refers to cultural symbols of education. The orientation of the building on the plot makes it a kind of compass. The circular layout based on concentric ellipses with a wind rose and an amphitheater in the center is reminiscent of a medieval monastery with a viridian. The object is divided into four parts - the sides of the world, with divisions for months and weeks appearing in successive circles.
visualization
© Aleksandra Stępniowska
Surrounded by plants, the green roof and the intertwining circles of the structure with green belts are supposed to change the atmosphere, provide the impression of a continuous walk through the park alleys.
The library consists of three concentric circles - each 8 meters wide. They are modular: each has two segments - educational rooms and communication supplemented with bookshelves (we move along a designated path, on one side we see greenery, on the other books), at any time we can enter the educational room, which also opens to the green circle. The whole area is transparent. Its center is visible from the entrance area connected to the cafe. From each circle there is a separate staircase passage to the floor, unencumbered by the typical library. There we can use open or closed audiovisual and conference/lecture rooms.
visualization
© Aleksandra Stępniowska
The future and knowledge are united by the awareness of change, so in addition to the original functional layout and the solution of social problems, it was important to take care of the interplay of the building with the environment and the choice of materials. The structure was proposed in glulam, and the partitions in CLT. The form of the building is intended to facilitate its use through easy ventilation and sunlight. A water management and rainwater filtration system has also been planned. The green roof and ubiquitous greenery allow the building to blend in with its surroundings and not disturb the natural biodiversity and proportion of biologically active area to the built-up area.
interior visualization
© Aleksandra Stępniowska
The Circle of Knowledge is a response to social problems, an alternative option for using library space. It changes the perception of these institutions.
Aleksandra STĘPNIOWSKA
Illustrations: © Author
