Our approach to design the City Main Library Gwangju was to bring in urban gravity to the new downtown concept in Sangmu district. Through thoughtful transformation of antagonist library spaces into eminent repository of knowledge by originative design approach & reinventing the concept of libraries with holistic experience. The library also aims to be part of a more connected and walkable community through innovative design solutions without compromising the requirements of the project.
The main concept of the design is to develop a sustainable, appealing and futuristic form that helps the library to derive its unique appearance forming the unique shape of the building. The roof is inclined to optimum sun angle to absorb maximum sunlight for solar power generation. The upper stories incorporate gardens on the balcony that is cantilevered outwards thus providing more reading areas with good views of the surrounding landscape and lets the user to experience an divine feeling of Architecture blending with nature and environment. The design has evolved in such a way that the floor plans are offset towards the North which provides shading, and invites natural lighting to the building, also enhancing the view towards nature’s beauty, the Gwangju River and inviting view of building from the highway.
Combining the effect of natural surroundings with reading can increase focus and comprehension. When one surround himself with trees, the breathing becomes deeper and senses are satiated . The sound, smell, sight, texture and even taste of the air enliven all our five senses. Thus the inclusion of a tiny habitat into each floor plan design enhance the user experience.
The City Main Library redefines and reinvent the library typology. While keeping traditional ‘book consumer’ facilities, the new library design enhances the user for triggering ideas and sharing knowledge. The growing importance of technology is facilitated by the architecture. The interaction with outdoor space and green terrace helps it deeper & richer way to acquire knowledge and information.
