herzog & de meuron reveals designs for national library of israel

herzog & de meuron reveals designs for national library of israel
image © herzog & de meuron

swiss architectural firm herzog & de meuron has unveiled plans for ‘the national library of israel‘, a completely new building to be constructed in jerusalem. the scheme combines the various functions of a research center, as well as serving as a venue for indoor and outdoor cultural and educational activities. the site also includes a hall for digital experience, a secure climate controlled underground storehouse for display pieces, and a range of on-site administrative headquarters.

the scheme serves as a venue for indoor and outdoor cultural activities
image © herzog & de meuron

the built area consists of approximately 34,000 square meters, 6 floors totaling 15,000 square meters above ground and 4 floors totaling 19,000 square meters, primarily for stacks and for subterranean parking. the design will now be developed alongside executive architect mann shinar architects and planners, with a groundbreaking scheduled for 2016. full completion of the library is currently slated for 2019.

above ground 6 brightly lit floors total 15,000 square meters
image © herzog & de meuron

‘our project reflects the open and transparent ambitions of the national library of israel’, explained herzog & de meuron in a statement. ‘the strong, sculptural form of the stone, related to the specific topography and context of the site, is elevated off the ground, and situated above vitrine like elements. the stone contains a large open space for the library’s visitors and users to interact while the vitrines expose the collection, reading room and public functions to the street and adjacent surroundings.’

the bold forms of the library illuminated at night
image © herzog & de meuron

‘the new building is the jewel in the crown of the national library’s renewal enterprise, which is moving forward full-speed’, said david blumberg, chair of the library. ‘it will provide the library with a stately and fitting home that will contribute to the enhancement of its activities in every sphere in which it has begun to operate over the past decade. these professional realms encompass research, preservation and provision of access to jewish and israeli culture using state of the art technologies. the new building will reflect the library’s role as a leading national institution in the collection and preservation of the treasures of the jewish people in israel and throughout the world.’