København - New modern library Competition

27arc-u-2079

Librarymy Knowledge is the engine of a country’s economic future and the foundation of a city’s competitiveness.

The next-generation library is no longer just a place to borrow, return and read books, but one designed with users as the centre and implementing the concepts of a new-generation digital library. It is a place for visitors to gather, to socialize or relax in a tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by books, while having the chance to experience outdoor spaces to get a view of the city towards the sea.

The most important aim of this project is to connect visitor’s daily life to the library, as if “that library” becomes “my library” in a way in which users develop feelings of belonging to what is usually understood as anonymous.

Spaces are not just destined to books or reading areas but they’re also addressed to functions like multimedia work environment (listening area, screen room), co-working spaces, group study area, auditorium, exhibition area, meeting room, bar, music spaces, including terraces.

The architecture of the Library The architecture of the Library will become a piece of art in itself and demonstrate Copenhagen’s creativity, aesthetics and cultural sophistication. With cutting-edge and trend-setting construction technology, it will become a landmark residents can appreciate and identify with both from up close and afar, attracting local as well as international visitors.

Design process required an attitude able to provide a series of ‘‘pleasant Spots’’ to enhance the reader’s comfort.

Open spaces help visitors to easily explore various parts of the library, if necessary they will be adapted to other functions, for instance conference hall can be used as reading area but at the same time it can work also as exhibition space or co-working area.

Ground floor 1 entrance hall 1a Second entrance 2 info point 3 book shop 4 cafeteria 5 reading terrace 6 security office 7 lockers 8 WC 9 Bike Parking

First floor 1 Kid’s area 2 Reading area 3 Meeting room 4 Group study 5 Reading corner 6 Office 7 Reading terrace 8 WC

Second floor 1 General library 2 Help desk 3 Consultation 4 Group study 5 Reading corner 6 Office 7 Reading terrace 8 WC

Fifth floor 1 Auditorium 2 Foyer 3 Exhibition 4 Bar 5 terrace 6 WC

Sixth floor 1 Foyer 2 Music space 3 Green terrace

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Third floor Fourth floor 1 Multimedia 1 Conference 2 Work room 2 Archive 3 Screening room 3 Office 4 Listening area 4 Reading 5 Office terrace 5 WC 6 Reading terrace 7 WC

During the summer season, curtain walls are preferred to be fully open permitting maximum air exchange. As the building proceeds upwards the curtain walls get back leading to the creation of terraces, these outdoor spaces prevent from direct sunlight impacting into spaces facing south.

To provide natural light and air circulation, a central void is created; its section grows as it rises up with a very fluid and dynamic shape. At the top it lets more natural light coming in, thanks to its glass panels it is able to light even the first floor.

Perforate panels: Use of materials like glass and perforate panel in the south faces of the building, help natural light to reach inside, in this case visitors have a good lightening for reading or all other activities. As there are two important views like The Amalie Garden and the waterfront, use of transparency allows visitors unusual views in all seven levels.

On the top of the building lies a Green Terrace covered by two layers of perforated panels and photovoltaic transparent glasses (south facing), that allows the entrance of the sunlight, avoiding UV radiation and infrared radiation.

The architectural objectives •

Streamlined Circulation The library as a multi-functional space has clear and smooth circulation with obvious delineation to speed up operations, simplify procedures and orient users.

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User-Friendly The workspaces and reading areas have appropriate spatial scale, environment, facilities and style catering to different users. Since some users’ may spend an entire day here, various spaces need to be provided to accommodate their needs throughout the day, with specific design strategies for children and senior users.

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Flexible Space The large spaces are grouped together to respond to needs and changes at different stages.

The design is adaptable to an evolving ratio between paper and digital books.

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F. Barrier-Free Space The spaces are flexible and barrier-free and unnecessary partitioning or elevation changes is avoided.

Functions include the following: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Fulfil the public library functions of collection, promotion and education and aim to be current, speedy, broad and deep.

Education, culture, information and recreation.

Reader services for parents and children; pre-school services and training.

Reader services for young adults.

Reader services for seniors.

General reader services.

Book borrowing and return.

Reference search and consultation.

Multimedia services.

Catering to and planning for the information needs for new immigrants and minority groups; promotional events such as reading clubs or lectures.

Seminars and workshops.

Tours, bookstores, gift shops, cafes, etc.

Overall Design Objectives •

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Accessible Public Space: The multi-faceted and accessible circulation and spatial planning will engage the public offering a diverse and layered spatial experience.

The architecture of the library provides flexible open spaces that they are yet in harmony to each other.

Social and Recreational Learning Environment: This space for group learning, discussion and interaction will adapt to the changing world, new generations and new learning models.

Exterior Appearance and Layout The exterior appearance and layout of Library reflects the new cultural spirit of Copenhagen. Its design concept distinct it from traditional designs.