The premise of our approach is based on the necessary ontological research related to the theme of the library. This search is based on two inseparable variables, one disciplinary related to the project, and the other on the essence of the place, the program.
The contemporary character of the library, associated with the interactive, the stimulating, the self-service and the technological experience (WEB 2.0), directs the projectual approach. The library today, in mutation, determines the place as a spatial experience.
The hierarchical plan of 19th and 20th century libraries is opposed to the neutral and undifferentiated space in which the floors are conceived as free and open "trays", with a network of services and free of columns. They can receive a multitude of uses. In this sense, the program is not fixed, but can be modulated in time and space.
The best way to put the book back in value is to free it from its fixed shelf. The furniture, shelves, counters are on wheels and would be moved according to events and changing needs. Curved modular shelves are arranged to form sub-spaces, or become both book storage and seating. Collections would no longer necessarily be tied to a classification system. The distinction between books and digital media is no longer relevant. For example, novels, references, films, audio tapes and comics can be grouped according to a particular theme. RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) allows freedom in classification, since the chip system acts like a GPS inside the library. Browsing, interactions and encounters are encouraged.
Projectual choices
Three principles guide the Saul-Bellow Library project: the first is that of simple form, of the existing volume encompassed in the new; the second consists of offering a "plateau embedded in the ground", as a unitary collective space of great height and light; the third aims at the installation of a recognizable volume, "suspended" above the void and offering qualified views towards the riverside landscape; the Old Lachine and its banks.
These three principles are shaped by programmatic requirements and urban conditions. The continuity of the floors and the optimal location of the vertical circulations determine the project. The existing basement floor is extended to the front, towards St-Antoine Street, to become an entresol that is both laterally contained and generously open towards two exterior courtyards to the east and west. Each has its own character and use; one, mineral and located near the entrance, for the café and the other, more vegetal, is for the use of young people in the heart of the future woodland. These terraces are contained by stone steps with juniper plantations, preventing their access from the street.
(From competitor's text)
(Unofficial automated translation)
The concept proposes a very good integration with the existing building, in a simple solution, by locating the public functions there.
The entrance on the parking side is a good solution but the lower level may present a winter problem.
The design shows a real concern for research, including the screen-printed glass cladding.
The 32nd Street façade is well balanced, with its signage element.
The overall architectural treatment resembles more a commercial building than a civic building, which the population of Lachine can identify with.
The volumetric geometry is dynamic and elegant and generates an atrium of a beautiful spatial quality.
The interior organization raises certain operational issues, including the monitoring of the reading areas on the south façade.
The treatment of the south façade, close to the first floor, becomes problematic due to solar gains.
The existing building is well used but risks being dark on the second floor, which is already dark without the extension.
The architectural language did not convince the jury and needs to be rethought.
(From jury report)
(Unofficial automated translation)
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