Library Design - Case Study (Dissertation)

Arch Daily, 2013.

A case study that can relate to my intended dissertation is the Subterranean Tunnel Links Library, designed by JKMM Architects, which was initially designed by Alvar Aalto in 1965. The main building is known to be a “masterpiece of modern architecture and a highly valuable cultural environment”, therefore known for its uniqueness of its characteristics.  

The new project wanted to redesign the existing library in a contemporary style that attracts various age groups (Frearson, A. 2014). The new project design expanded the original area as to increase the area and incorporate additional reading rooms mainly to meet today’s needs (Frearson, A. 2014). The design was quite challenging especially to be able to create a balance between the old and the new building keeping the same characteristics design by Aalto (JKMM Architects, 2013).

One of the aims the new design proposed is to create a connection between the new and old part of the building by respecting the original characteristics (JKMM Architects, 2013).

Arch Daily, 2013.

Nowadays technology is rapidly changing and developing, and this project aims to provide adaptive technologies in relation to the library, aiming to draw attention of different individuals towards the library (JKMM Architects, 2013). Creating new roles to the new library by creating various zones within this library for various activities. The zones were sectioned in three which were distinguished by the different use of form, textures and materials from one zone to the other (JKMM Architects, 2013). One zone was created as a relaxing area where various activities related with the library can happen, then stairs leads users towards the shelving area were most of the books are held, also leading to a subterranean passage that leads to the older part of the building (JKMM Architects, 2013). A sculpture like elements was incorporate throughout most parts of the interior. From the interior beautiful panoramic view are achieved with no obstruction, creating a connection of the exterior into the interior (JKMM Architects, 2013).

Dezeen, 2014.

The whole building itself stands out and contrasts from the rest as its exterior has a darker material from the rest of the buildings at the surroundings. The materials used for the exterior were dark copper cladding, which forms a unique and eye-catching texture (JKMM Architects, 2013).

Arch Daily, 2013.

Having analysed this case study, I really think that this case study is interesting and I’m realising that we tend to overlook the need of libraries in Malta and do not invest in such buildings which can aim to enrich everyone’s knowledge. If something similar is done in Malta, I personally think that it would draws children’s and parents’ attention, and they’d invest more of their time in literacy. This case study shows an insight of what I would like my dissertation project to be based on, but of course having the research to determine the aims and objectives to design a local public library.

References

Frearson, A. 2014. Subterranean tunnel links Seinäjoki library by JKMM Architects with Aalto's 1965 building. Dezeen. [online] Available at: https://www.dezeen.com/2014/11/12/seinajoki-city-library-jkmm-architects-alvar-aalto-finland/ [Accessed 11 March 2017].

JKMM Architects, 2013. City Library in Seinäjoki / JKMM Architects. Arch daily. [online] Available at: http://www.archdaily.com/360049/city-library-in-seinajoki-jkmm-architects [Accessed 12 March 2017].