This newly completed library in Tianjin, China by MVRDV is shaped around a giant sphere
Rotterdam based MVRDV has just completed a new library in Tianjin, China, which is a part of gmp Architekten's new 120.000 square meter culture plan for the area.
The five storey building is shaped around a giant sphere in the middle of the main room called "the eye". Inside, you'll find the books placed on terraces from floor to ceilings which makes it look like they echo the orb. The two first floors are made up of reading rooms and lounge areas while the two top floors contains offices and meeting spaces as well as computer, and audio rooms. A final subterranean storey accommodates service spaces, book storage, and a large archive. The building which only took three years to complete, can store a total of 1.2 million books.
"The tight construction schedule meant that, against MVRDV’s advice, access was not given to the upper bookshelves from rooms placed behind the atrium. the design team says that the full vision for the library may be realized in future, but until then perforated aluminum plates have been printed to represent books on the upper shelves."
See more images of the impressive space below.
Via: Designboom
Photos: OSSIP Architectuur Fotografie
