‘kaohsiung public library’ by mecanoo in kaohsiung, taiwan all images courtesy mecanoo

delft-based studio mecanoo architects has designed ‘kaohsiung public library’, a 38,000 m2 facility for the taiwanese city. working in collaboration with taipei-based artech architects, the entry won the team second place in the open design competition.

conceived as a 60 x 60 meter cube, the library heavily incorporates green elements into its design: potted container plants cover the entire facade, transforming the volume into a giant three-dimensional garden. the multifunctional building opens onto singuang boulevard, creating a cultural public square for public and social activities. pockets of private spaces are also provided interspersedly to cater to visitors who would like to read or study.

mecanoo: kaohsiung public library night view

the main element of the garden area is an expansive deck, which is elevated from the street level to serve as a ‘buffer zone’ between the inner garden and the urban fabric of the site. smaller, intimate spaces are generated for a number of activities while preserving the unity of the space as a whole.

mecanoo: kaohsiung public library site model

mecanoo: kaohsiung public library physical model

mecanoo: kaohsiung public library site plan

mecanoo: kaohsiung public library (left) sketch (right) floor plan

mecanoo: kaohsiung public library section

mecanoo: kaohsiung public library sustainability diagram