Community Library - 2015

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This project is given a strong identity by providing a public and inviting gathering space for both the Little Portugal neighbourhood and the city. People are welcomed to come in from an internal street space which is created as a connection between the building and the streets. This space is also designed as an introduction to the building, leading people to the main activity space at the center of the building. Retails are organized along one side of the introduction space while the sliding doors on the other side is separating it from the street but still allowing interactions. In addition, the sliding doors open up in summers, allowing people coming in from all directions and having strong interaction with the building. The public gathering space is one of the main parts of this project, around which all other programs are organized. People are encourage to walk in this building instead of taking elevators. While walking upstairs through stairs, different programs that are organized in different levels can be experienced.

Lighting issues are addressed by using light wells at critical locations. They are also designed as vertical connections between different levels. The light well above the main activity space is also designed for artificial lighting so that it can be used as accent lighting when the space is used for special events.