d'houndt+bajart leans library extension against brick façade

d’houndt+bajart leans library extension against brick façade
photo by julien lanoo
all images courtesy of d’houndt+bajart architectes

in an industrial area of northern france, d’houndt+bajart architectes has completed the construction of a media library that serves as a vibrant cultural hub for the local community. the project involves the renovation of the previously existing textile factory and the addition of a new structure that leans elegantly against the brick façade.

the open courtyard outside the renovated structure
photo by julien lanoo

composed of three individual volumes, ‘la mediatheque andree chedid’ features perforated walls and ceilings that filter light inside the building. public functions are hosted at ground level, while above, the first floor is reserved for events specific to the media library. the hexagonal patterning of the extension’s elevations reference organic matter, emerging from the ground plane and spreading across the façades in a seemingly random manner.

‘la mediatheque andree chedid’ is composed of three individual volumes
photo by julien lanoo

internally, bespoke furniture has been custom designed to meet the needs of both adults and children, while retaining a sense of architectural consistency. honeycomb apertures allow light to be directed into carefully chosen areas of the plan, illuminating zones where reading takes place.

from an environmental perspective, initiatives such as rainwater harvesting, and the integration of photovoltaic panels and an on-site heat pump ensures that the project remains sustainable.

the rear of the media library
photo by julien lanoo

honeycomb apertures allow light to be directed into carefully chosen areas of the plan
photo by julien lanoo

auditorium contained within the new addition
photo by julien lanoo

bespoke furniture has been custom designed to meet the needs of both adults and children
photo by julien lanoo

the hexagonal patterning of the extension’s elevations reference organic matter
photo by julien lanoo

at night, the project is illuminated from within
photo by julien lanoo

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project info:

location: tourcoing, france
client: the city of tourcoing
net floor area: 920 sqm
work amount: 2,376 500€/excluding vat
cost: €2,580/sqm excluding vat
delivery: september 2013
architect: d’houndt+bajart architects & associates
façade study office: van santen.vs-a group