department of architecture co proposes mulit-use architecture library in bangkok

in the near future, will we still read books and need physical space for libraries? bangkok firm, department of architecture co, poses the question of how people use libraries differently in the internet age, which has changed the way we access information and knowledge? the project, located in the chulalongkorn university in bangkok, thailand, explores new possibilities of how a library could be designed for the technological lifestyle. 

to re-activate the library, the designers expanded the meaning of the architecture library to be more than a place for reading books, but to become ‘a creative incubator’ for students of architecture. various programs are integrated into the new library. they range from a co-working space, an exhibition space, a pin-up space to an occasional lecture space where the library becomes a place for the exchange of ideas.

the library not only includes physical books as sources of knowledge and inspiration but also digital media, movies, and exhibition spaces. on its first level, a 3ds grid system enveloping a co-working space provides an open-ended platform for students to create exhibitions or various events, to hang, to fasten, to insert, or to do anything with it. the library becomes an experimental ground for architecture students to act on the space. 

the department of architecture co enabled an ever changing exhibition space so students can get inspired by others constantly. the system is also available for pin-up spaces with magnetic pin boards and digital screen where anyone who walk pass can stop by to join the discussions. although today a great deal of information is online, content in books still have a different nature of curation and depth. 

while digital data already surrounds people virtually, the physical space of the library attempts to surround visitors with physical books and magazines. showcase spaces showing book covers facing out are maximized, rather than the usual compressed stacks we see only book spines, inviting people to pick them up to read them. 

on the top floor, the pixelated steps are reading area that, with rearrangement of the cushions, can be turned into an auditorium for occasional lectures or movies as another source of inspiration. different atmospheres and seating types allow people to choose according to their preference, from co-working space, tables looking to the outside, a quiet area, low table and sofa space for a relaxing setting, even to sitting on the floor. 

the students who work all night may even find a space to take a power nap on the mattress area on the mezzanine. here still be a quiet zone for those who need to concentrate. carrels are rearranged in a labyrinth configuration to minimize disturbance from the circulation around. the reflective ceiling reveals the plan of the luminous maze. 

project info: 

benefactor & project director: sermsin samalapa 

architect, interior designer: department of architecture co. 

lighting designer: apld co., ltd. 

structural engineer: jet structural 

m&e engineer: next 2nd co., ltd. 

environmental graphic designer: ga49 co., ltd. 

ceiling graphic designer: be>our>friend studio 

area: 1,260 m2 

photographer: w workspace

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: cristina gomez | designboom