CITY UNIVERSITY LIBRARY
Planning gained for a bold, modular library extension that offers light-filled reading spaces overlooking a sensitive Grade II listed Georgian Terrace
FOR CITY UNIVERSITY LONDON
The 25,000 sqft project is a contextual response to the aggregation of elements that make up the University’s existing building. The proposed ellipse rooftop addition creates a symbiotic relationship to the landscape below whilst softening the internal and external environment through form and material.
A beautiful place to sit and read, the basket timber enclosure creates community and cosiness whilst also allowing the mind to wander to the horizon and the city of London skyline. Light is controlled through the depth of the structural skin, creating the perfect environment to read. The complex movement of shadows ensures this is a place to feel fresh, to feel the slow march of time and to take a book to light.
SOFTENING THE EDGES
The elliptical plan, which takes inspiration from the oval Northampton Square gardens adjacent the proposals, looks to engender a sense of student community and works to soften the existing building.
DRAWING IN THE LIGHT
The new, elliptical-shaped seventh floor will serve as an open, light-filled and column-free reading room achieving spans of 45m x 17m. It features a central rooflight integrated into the crafted, geometric timber ceiling.
RESPECTING THE BUILDING’S EXISTING LANGUAGE
The design of the new study space respects and complements the current language of the building, whilst offering relief and enabling each element to distinguish itself from the other. The proposed facade approach reacts to the strong, repetitive horizontal and vertical articulation of the existing building with a subtle diagrid.
LOCATION
London
SIZE
25,000 sqft
STATUS
Planning granted
CLIENT
City University London