The design for the Urban Library of the Future and Centre for New Media creates a dynamic, flexible and open knowledge environment, with an open landscape, alternative circulation routes, several meeting areas and a public plaza. The building is fluid in form, accommodating to its surroundings and incorporates expansive sightlines. The internal organisation of the building is based on an open central void, around which the circulation takes place. This void enhances the spatial experience, creates clear orientation through the building and fulfills a bridging function between the city and the Municipal Library. The structure of the building makes it possible to introduce (green) roof terraces whilst also ensuring low levels of direct sunlight penetration.
Client: CVBA Waalse Krook
Location: Gent, Belgium
Building surface: 19.498,6 m2
Programme: Library and Centre for New Media
Status: Competition entry
UNStudio: Ben van Berkel, Caroline Bos, Gerard Loozekoot with Jacques van Wijk, Wesley Lanckriet and Jordan Trachtenberg, Ren Yee, Wendy van der Knijff , Bartek Winnicki, Aurélie Krotoff, Patrik Noome, Marcin Koltunski, Joerg Lonkwitz, Miguel Noë, Imola Berczi, Elena Scripelliti
AdvisorsStructure : ABT, Antwerp and Netherlands
Installations : ABT, Netherlands
Fire : ABT, Antwerp and Netherlands
Costs : ABT, Antwerp and Netherlands
Local architect : Crepain Binst Architecture, Antwerp
Pictures here
