University Library Utrecht, Netherlands

Related person

Addison Godel (was created by)

Description

"All in black figured concrete on which a partly double-glazed facade to which a silk-screened figurative pattern has been applied in order to let natural light into the building encases the reading rooms rest. The glass facade also encloses the car park like a smooth skin, thereby making it an integral part of the complex. On one side it is the university site where the view from the raw interior offers a filtered prospect of the open countryside surrounding it; on the other, there is the view of the long slopes situated beside the inner courtyard that work as blinds to filter the view of the park. Based on the idea that silent communication is important in a building where there is hardly any talking, the atmosphere is determined with an emphasis on creating a sense of security. That was essential for the choice of a black interior. A light, shiny floor provides enough reflection of natural or artificial light to illuminate some of the 42 million books that are on open shelves, while the long white tables make it possible to read a book or to consult electronic effort without too much effort. The individual workplace with full facilities is the key element, and has been positioned in such a way that the user's choice of a workplace also determines the degree of communication with other users. Absorption versus confrontation, working in a concentrated way versus communication, is the main premises in this library where the infrastructure has more than one function. The route is also programmed by it, since the bar, the lounge area, the reception corner, the auditorium, the desks, all fitted with red rubber and other programs such as shops, add an extra dimension to the route, thereby breaking down the mono-functionality of the library program." -http://www.wielaretsarchitects.nl/

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