Hudson Architects has skillfully transformed a neglected commercial building in Norfolk into the vibrant King’s Lynn Library. The firm revitalizes this reimagined space by enveloping the former concrete structure with a striking exterior of cement shingles.
The project’s challenge lay in converting the old nightclub, car park, and retail store into a more central home for the local library, which was underused due to its location on the town’s outskirts. They rejuvenated the structure by reducing its original mass, aligning it with the scale of nearby buildings while carving an expansive public street at the entrance.
Studio director Louise Boddy explained, “Our role was to reshape the building’s stark presence into something welcoming near a conservation area and the modern shopping district.” Retaining much of the original building was key to the project’s success.
The renovation includes a large skylit atrium and a southern corner that opens to the street with a facade of glass. Inside, the library retains its concrete framework, softened by a timber staircase and panel walls.
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Externally, the library’s cement shingles in pale hues mimic surrounding architectural tones and textures. Despite its modern facade, the building’s storied history is evident upon closer inspection, revealing the character of its former life.
The ground floor features a children’s section inspired by the medieval town, complete with castle-themed play areas and shelving under acoustically treated timber ceilings. The first floor offers open reading spaces around an atrium, with accessible facilities including a stair and lift.
On the second floor, visitors find educational rooms and a training kitchen, boasting views of the city through large windows. They ensure these spaces are both functional and aesthetically appealing.
Previous works by Hudson Architects, like the sustainable cob house in Norfolk, demonstrate a commitment to low-carbon construction. Their projects span various places, from a demountable library in Amsterdam to a tree-integrated library in Luanda. The transformation of King’s Lynn Library stands as a testament to their innovative approach. The stunning photography capturing this project is by Fred Howarth.
For more architectural innovation, check out Toronto’s UUfie Reinventing a 1970s Chalet, showcasing transformative approaches to design.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
How was the old building transformed into King’s Lynn Library?
Hudson Architects transformed a neglected commercial building by enveloping it with a striking exterior of cement shingles and converting it into a vibrant library. The renovation included reducing its mass to align with nearby buildings and carving out an expansive public street entrance. Inside, the concrete framework was retained, softened by timber stairs and panels.
What features does the new King’s Lynn Library have?
The library includes a skylit atrium and a southern corner that opens to the street with a glass facade. The ground floor has a children’s section with castle-themed play areas, while the first floor offers open reading spaces around an atrium. The second floor provides educational rooms and a training kitchen with city views.
What architectural materials were used on the library’s exterior?
The library’s exterior features cement shingles in pale hues to mimic the surrounding architectural tones and textures. Despite its modern facade, the building retains the character of its former life upon closer inspection.