stl architects' library in korea features a massive atrium amidst concrete volumes

chicago-based firm stl architects designed the new city main library at gwagjiu, korea, a project conceived as both an efficient device for learning and a temple in which to to celebrate and elevate culture, intellect and the free exchange of ideas. the designers imagine libraries as ‘culture generators and public cornerstones of our civilization, as buildings that create and preserve culture by fostering the creativity and imagination inherent in the human condition.’ consequently, the architecture of a library, in addition to providing a public service by addressing its program requirements, should also be a source of inspiration and awe. 

stl architects designed the inspirational cauldron of information and architecture to become the ideal physical space where people interact with knowledge. the public side of the library is accessed through a magnificent four-story atrium that aims to inspire visitors and properly represent an entrance to a culturally transcendent building. the entry lifts the visitor’s spirit inviting them to participate and contribute to the cultural temple they have just entered. 

above the main entry, a large concrete floating dome levitates over the space welcoming visitors into a ethereal, transcendent space where the laws of gravity seem to have been suspended. concrete takes on an ethereal quality by being punctured through with big holes that allow transparency and light throughout the building. the ciruclar theme is reflected in the lighting fixtures, ventilation openings, and facade elements that permeate through the building. 

the building is placed along the south border of the site acting as a programmatic backdrop to the rest of the master plan’s amenities. the site plan arrangement and the four story building form factor, allows for a large open space to be developed immediately north of the building creating a new park resource between the old factory and the new library. the four-story library, which is 26 meters wide by 142 meters long, is organized into two distinct overall zones, a public zone and a private zone. 

the public zone of the building is comprised of the core programs for the library and is located at the west end of the longitudinal arrangement. the private zone holding the library archive, restricted personnel areas and associated functions, is located at the east of the plan. the specific location of the book depository enables the potential expansion of future reading rooms into the existing factory.

project info:

design: stl architects

location: gwangju metropolitan city

project completion: 2020

size: 118,069 sf

type: education

project budget: 36.45 m

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