philologische bibliothek by norman foster leaves its mark in berlin

‘philologische bibliothek’ by norman Foster, berlin, germany
image © felix loechner

german architectural photographer felix loechner has recently completed a photo report on norman foster’s ‘philologische bibliothek’, the latest project of the freie universitat in berlin. the elliptical shape of the exterior form is enhanced by an elegantly gridded steel canopy checkered with panels of varying transparencies that illuminate the interior with a bright evenly diffused glow of natural light.  within the large open space stark white ribbons outline a the various floors containing books and seating areas.  independent from the exterior envelope, the contoured levels respond to the fluid expression of the roof while possessing an aesthetic nature of their own that transitions from areas of circulation to pockets of open space meant for sitting.

individual seats along the perimeter of the floor
image © felix loechner

the scale of the roof is made evident against the seating areas
image © felix loechner

view of the main entrance
image © felix loechner

image © felix loechner

image © felix loechner

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