takao shiotsuka atelier tops taketa city library in japan with fragmented gabled roof

takao shiotsuka atelier has topped the library of taketa city, japan, with a gabled roof of stainless steel, divided in three distinct segments. the fragmented roof appears to be detached from the library’s reinforced concrete walls, which contributes to the creation of an airy interior atmosphere and allows natural light to enter the different spaces. within the large, open-plan space, bookcases are arranged in a pattern that curves gently like the flow of water, encouraging the visitors’ continuous movement.

all images by toshiyuki yano

takao shiotsuka atelier has designed the library as part of a regeneration project to revive the castle town of taketa, which has a population of about 20,000, with very few of which walking around the city. translating traditional elements of the castle town surroundings, the architects have crated a building whose roof and walls open to take the environment inside, and promote the movement of people by inviting them in. 

inside, the library is characterized by a large, airy volume that contains most of the bookcases, which circle within the building, and curve gently to encourage the movement of visitors throughout the space. the bookcases are arranged in areas with different features, including: open shelves in the north, which are reminiscent of a silent forest; shelves on the second floor that resemble an enclosed cave; and shelves in the south that are similar to a lightweight plane.

project info:

name: taketa city library

architect: takao shiotsuka atelier

client: taketa city

location: taketa city, oita, japan

structural design: hirohide tao

gross usable floor space: 1,577.62 mq

lot size: 2,800.88 mq