Modern libraries are no longer just a place to borrow books, but are becoming multifunctional spaces that activate the community and create a space for learning meetings and spending time together. The concept of such a modern library was created by Kamila Anna Kowal from Poznan University of Technology as part of her diploma thesis, done under the supervision of Dr. Magdalena Gyurkovich.
bird's eye view front
© Kamila Anna Kowal
modern library as a social space
Modern cities are developing dynamically and their residents are increasingly looking for places that allow not only to acquire knowledge, but also to establish relationships and experience cultural events together. Many neighborhoods struggle with insufficient cultural and social offerings, which leads to the atomization of residents. The creation of a library that responds to these needs was the main goal of the project. The concept assumes the introduction of functions that go beyond the traditional understanding of a library to include educational and cultural recreational zones, making it a place conducive to integration.
scheme of functions
© Kamila Anna Kowal
location and its impact on the functionality of the facility
The key element was to find a suitable plot of land in a location that would provide easy access for residents/residents and at the same time not interfere with the existing library infrastructure. The project was located in a low-rise residential neighborhood, which ensures the intimate nature of the investment and allows to open the space to the needs of the local community. The plot is partially wooded, so the project takes into account the harmonious integration of the building into the surrounding nature, which contributes to both aesthetic and ecological qualities.
site development plan
© Kamila Anna Kowal
The large area of the plot allowed to create a recreational space with dominant greenery which positively influences the comfort of users/users. In order to maximize the green space, the parking was placed in the underground garage, which allows to maintain the coherence of the urban concept. The building has been designed to fit in with its surroundings and at the same time to be a center of social life.
south elevation, park
© Kamila Anna Kowal
functionality of the building spaces adapted to different needs
The interior of the library has been divided into zones of different character, which allows flexible use of the space depending on the current needs of the users/users. The first floor houses a reception hall a cafeteria and a multifunctional space with a reading room for children. In the central part there is an interior patio with a stand which can be used as a meeting space for workshops film screenings and cultural events. The space can also be separated by mobile panels which allows it to be adapted to different functions.
multifunctional space
© Kamila Anna Kowal
On the first floor there are reading rooms for teenagers and adults coworking zone conference rooms and administrative rooms. All zones have been designed to function independently of the opening hours of the main part of the library, which increases the accessibility of the facility and allows for better use of its potential.
interior patio and grandstand
© Kamila Anna Kowal
ecological architectural solutions
The design of the library takes into account the principles of sustainable architecture which allows to reduce the cost of maintaining the building and limit the negative impact on the environment. The compact body reduces energy demand and the use of arcades regulates the access of light to the interior. In summer, they protect against excessive heating and in winter they allow maximum use of daylight.
front elevation
© Kamila Anna Kowal
In addition, the facade of the building has been equipped with movable openwork panels, which allow to control the amount of light entering the interior and provide a view of the park. A bifold skylight over the patio allows natural ventilation which contributes to reducing the need for air conditioning. Systems using rainwater and renewable energy sources support the building's green operation.
view of the park and building detail
© Kamila Anna Kowal
The combination of cultural educational and recreational functions makes it possible to create a place that responds to the needs of residents/residents and encourages active participation in the life of the local community. The modern library becomes an open space conducive to integration and spending time together, which is a response to the challenges of the modern city.
reading corner
© Kamila Anna Kowal
