Purchase
EU open competition for the realization of Library 21 in Stuttgart
1999
With 310,000 books and media, the current central library of the state capital Stuttgart is too small for the ever-growing demand. The stock must be expanded to 500,000 media units.
The library's new location is on inner-city railroad land (approx. 105 ha), which is being redeveloped as part of the "Stuttgart 21" project.
Key thoughts on the concept :
A library that marks the dawn of the 21st century, that documents the broad spectrum of cultural exchange between the analog and digital worlds, between science and art, between society and the media.
A scaffolding, wrapped in a media façade, two-layered, glass, printed in the world's major languages, messages of light and text, inviting, significant, with a signal effect by day and night, a building full of surprises: Around the core, the "heart" and the central walkway (center and orientation), learning studios, graphics, music library and all other program areas are grouped in a loose arrangement.
Layering, overlapping and interpenetration make our Library 21 an exciting space to experience. Open and more intimate areas, views and vistas are designed to encourage people to meet, communicate, educate themselves and converse here.
The interweaving of bodies and levels is intended to be playful, flexible and generous and allows variations and organizational freedom for operators and visitors. In a second construction phase, Library 21 will be supplemented by an IMAX cinema, with transparent glass prism and solid, sculptural body entering into an exciting dialog.