Re-Assembling The Library Of Bo'Ness

JULIETTE DE METZ

The new library retains three elements of the old library independents, as historic prints: the tobacco warehouse, the tavern and the staircase, part of the extension built in the 1980’s. The intervention consists of linking these parts together with an open space that contrasts with the existing. The existing is characterised by defined and closed spaces, whereas the extension is a polyvalent open space allowed by the curtains. The landscape influences the project: the extension seems to expand towards the open view, the entrance interacts with the street and creates a feeling of enclosure that welcomes people in the library.

Re-assembling the library of Bo' ness

RONNELL CALIWAG

The project is to analyse and understand the presence and quality of Bo’ness library’s materials and develop a strategy of alteration, addition and occupation. Develop the existing library with the design proposal of reuse and expansion, and the physical presence of the existing building and its part should be carefully considered. The final design combines traditional stone structure and modern structure style. The new proposed extension building was inspired by a sailing ship because Bo’ness has been known for ports since the 18th century. There is a space for informal assembly or exhibition on the ground floor, and on the first floor is a space for meeting other activities. There is a large window between the old and new buildings so that people can see the connection between the two buildings. On the second floor, there is quiet reading and research with an extended Lozenge or stairs to access the new building. There is a skylight on the single storey of the building and a glass wall that can provide natural light and minimise the number of artificial lights.