A vast, white roof reminiscent of the pages of a book crowns the Chang’an Academy Xi’an Public Library, showcasing a creative architectural concept. Located in Shanxi Province, this cultural center offers 70,000 square meters of reading, exhibition, and educational spaces.
Overlooking the Ba River and Olympic Sports Centre in the Chanba Ecological Area, the library is a collaborative creation by Hong Designworks and China Northwest Architectural Design and Research Institute. The design merges the grandeur of a landmark with inviting, approachable spaces—a concept they describe as “de-memorialisation.”
Architectural Innovation and Community Engagement
The library is structured into three sections, divided by a central plaza and a narrow central cut. This configuration pulls both visitors and natural light into a vast atrium, promoting activity and engagement. “The vitality of cultural architecture lies in its ability to foster true connections between people and the city,” explains Hong Designworks co-founder Ming Dang.
This atrium is not just a passageway; it’s a lively hub for both quiet study and bustling gatherings. Curved staircases and walkways connect the varied spaces, adding depth and functionality.
Beyond Monumentality
Unlike traditional large-scale public buildings, where atria often serve as mere walkways, this library offers spaces that encourage interaction and repose. “We transformed the atrium into a dynamic environment,” says Dang, emphasizing the goal of cultivating interaction over emptiness.
The unique roofing design, lowering at the center and rising at the corners, enhances this openness, with full-height glazed walls adding to the expansive feel. Its shape also nods to traditional Chinese upturned eaves, blending old influences with modern sensibilities.
For another example of innovation in public architecture, SoBA’s Bold Kindergarten Design demonstrates colorful reinvention of urban spaces.
A Harmonious Blend of Materials
Inside, wood-grain metal panels and stone floors combine fire safety with warmth. White triangular ceiling panels contribute to a spacious, airy atmosphere.
The signature structure of the Xi’an library joins other notable Chinese libraries like Snøhetta’s Beijing City Library, known for its tree-like roof, and a brick shell-inspired library.
The images in this article are courtesy of Studio Ten.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is unique about the Xi’an library’s roof design?
The roof of the Xi’an library is vast and white, resembling the pages of a book. It also nods to traditional Chinese upturned eaves, blending old influences with modern sensibilities.
How is the Xi’an library designed to encourage interaction?
The library features a dynamic atrium that serves as a lively hub, rather than a mere passageway. Curved staircases and walkways connect varied spaces, fostering interaction and engagement.
What materials are used inside the Xi’an library?
The interior includes wood-grain metal panels and stone floors, combining fire safety with a warm appearance. White triangular ceiling panels help create a spacious and airy atmosphere.