architects collective: dalian library

‘dalian library’ by architects collective, dalian, china all images courtesy architects collective

vienna-based practice architects collective has designed the ‘dalian library’ for the city of dalian, china. the curving exterior shell is conceptually derived from a rose, the city’s flower, blossoming towards the sky revealing a focal garden. with a triangular footprint, the transparent structure creates a strong relationship with the nearby ocean. positioned within a park setting, the center will become a landmark for both residents as well as visitors while serving as a symbol for creativity and environmental harmony to the community.

all programmatic areas will provide contemplative atmospheres with visual connections to nature within a central courtyard and the encompassing landscaped grounds which continue a petal motif. the undulating building profile will allow views towards the bay from the upper level reading room. circulation will occur through a grand spiraling stair which wraps the central void while stacks are placed at the outer perimeter.

ground level

stacks

upper level reading room

aerial view of central courtyard

aerial view of building

site plan

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level 1

floor plan / level 2

floor plan / level 3

floor plan / level 4

floor plan / level -1

elevation

elevation

elevation

elevation

site diagram

views diagram

project info:

project type: construction of a new public library location: dalian, china procedure: invited competition result: finalist client: city of dalian architect: architects collective team: andreas frauscher, patrick herold, richard klinger, martin schorn, kurt sattler, fei tang gross floor area: 50.000 m2 competition date: 10/2011 construction costs: 50.000.000 EUR