Green-roofed Helsinki Library Boasts an Invigorating Mix of Fixed and Flexible Spaces

Posted By Tafline Laylin On December 14, 2012 @ 10:06 am In Architecture,carousel showcase,Daylighting,gallery,green roof | No Comments

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The days when libraries were small, humble affairs with eery, silent halls are long gone if STL Architects ^[6]' entry for a new library is anything to go by. Large, bright and topped with a green roof ^[7], this library concept proposes an invigorating blend of fixed, structured spaces and more dynamic, flexible spaces that are open to the public. Submitted to a competition commissioned by the City of Helsinki in Finland, this exciting design promises a contemporary library that will act as a catalyst for social and cultural interaction.

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The flexible sections of the library ^[8] will include cafes, areas for children and open reading spaces. These areas will be fluid, column-free and connected by a series of stairs and ramps. And all of it will be enclosed by a transparent, continuous membrane. By contrast, the fixed parts of the library will be strictly organized and rigid in keeping with the need to provide efficient information management.

Although artificial lighting will most likely be used inside, it will be unnecessary due to the building’s transparent envelope, which is conducive to plenty of daylighting ^[9]. The renders show a green roof topping out the entire program, which will provide insulation and enhance the air quality, as well as help to mitigate harmful rainwater run off.

+ STL Architects ^[6]

Via Arch Daily ^[10]

Article printed from Inhabitat – Sustainable Design Innovation, Eco Architecture, Green Building: http://inhabitat.com

URL to article: http://inhabitat.com/green-roofed-helsinki-library-boasts-an-invigorating-mix-of-fixed-and-flexible-spaces/

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[5]  : http://inhabitat.com/green-roofed-helsinki-library-boasts-an-invigorating-mix-of-fixed-and-flexible-spaces/helsinki-library-by-stl-architects-2/?extend=1

[6] STL Architects: http://www.stlchicago.com

[7] green roof: http://inhabitat.com/norway-green-roof-homes/

[8] flexible sections of the library: http://inhabitat.com/arabian-library-by-richard-and-bauer/

[9] plenty of daylighting: http://inhabitat.com/daylighting/

[10] Arch Daily: http://www.archdaily.com/299904/helsinki-central-library-competition-entry-stl-architects/

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