kortrijk 'library of the future' by REX architecture
image courtesy REX architecture

the city of kortrijk sought to create a 'library of the future' that would combine the functions
of a traditional central library with a life-long learning center, and engage the city’s music
center as an equal partner. the city named this agglomeration the 'lllibrary' which has been
designed by REX architecture.


kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture

by moving the lllibrary to the music center’s site, and by enveloping portions of
the music center’s existing building, the lllibrary’s connection to the cultural axis is
strengthened. more importantly, the lllibrary’s breadth is significantly expanded by
the literal inclusion of the music center.



kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture


kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy rex architecture


kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture

by incorporating the existing music center’s auditoria and pop hall into the new lllibrary
building, the scheme makes cost-effective use of recently renovated performance infrastructure.



kortrijk’s lllibrary aims to weave together the cumulative human and technological
intelligence of the library, the life-long learning center, and the music center.





kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture


kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture


kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture



kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture

the functions of the library, the life-long learning center, and the music center are
collectively grouped into “stable” and “unstable” halves. these halves are layered into
a single, linear educational “ribbon.” each half is architecturally equipped with its own form
of bespoke flexibility such that it can evolve without detriment to the other half. the stable function
such as classrooms, meeting spaces, offices, and auditoria—are organized within the ribbon’s
interior, and can be reassigned as the three institutions’ needs change. the unstable spaces
predominantly composed of the library’s public space and book stacks—form the ribbon’s rooftop,
and can be wholly reconceived as necessary.



kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture


kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture


kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture



kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture

kortrijk 'library of the future' - furniture
image courtesy REX architecture

the flexibility of the custom-designed furniture further supports the lllibrary’s affordable
redefinition over time. using a universal table that can transform into a reading station,
a writing station, a study carrel, a computer station, or a conference table and that can be
single-sided or double-sided, and oriented for sitting or standing allows the lllibrary’s spaces
to be redefined throughout the building’s life without additional cost.


kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture


kortrijk 'library of the future'
image courtesy REX architecture



kortrijk 'library of the future'
courtesy of bureau bas smets

credits
design architect: REX
urban planner/landscape architect: bureau bas smets
executive architect: bureau bouwtechniek
consultants: NEY, studio arne quinze