yi architects: new stuttgart library

'new stuttgart library' by yi architects in stuttgart, germany
image courtesy yi architects


korean-born germany-based architect eun young yi has completed the design of 'new stuttgart library',
a cubic facility conceived as a part of the master development plan for the european quarter in stuttgart,
germany. influenced by the structure and organization of the ancient pantheon, the design features
a linear-shaped 'heart' which serves as a central, multi-storey meeting space that draws in natural light
through the roof.



exterior view
image courtesy yi architects


clear and geometric in volume, the library's exterior is defined by a series of regular openings
that provide a grid-like effect to the elevations. an arrangement of 9 x 9 glass bricks held within
a concrete frame serves as an outer shell to a double facade which shelters a narrow promenade space
circumscribing the building. four entrances which correspond to the size and shape of the grid
provide access points on the ground floor and lead collectively to the circular entrance hall and 'heart'. 



grid-like facade
image courtesy yi architects



promenade space
image courtesy yi architects


continuing on the language and motif of the facade, the 'heart' of the library features a series of
small interior windows that wrap around the four walls and ceiling of the multi-storey volume.
a central oculus located above a 1 m2 ground fountain illuminates the interior while providing a
visual focus point for the white space. located above the skylight is the library itself which takes on
a funnel-shaped form through five staggered levels. the gallery hall is connected through a series of
staircases that are arranged to promote a spiralling circulation around the books.



interior view of 'heart'
image courtesy yi architects



funnel-shaped library
image © vipgavin



images © vipgavin



sectional model
image courtesy yi architects



site map
image courtesy yi architects



floor plan / level 0
(1) 'heart'
(2) entrance hall
(3) offices
(4) sorting area
(5) entrance
image courtesy yi architects



floor plan / level +8
(1) reading room
(2) media presentation
(3) workstations
(4) graphotek
(5) cafeteria
(6) offices
(7) sorting area
image courtesy yi architects



section
image courtesy yi architects



elevation
image courtesy yi architects