Spaces in Between
Extension of the Stockholm City Library
S. Pietsch – Mentor (TU Delft - Situated Architecture)
E. Karanastasi – Mentor (TU Delft - Teachers of Practice / AE+T)
S.S. Mandias – Mentor (TU Delft - Situated Architecture)
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Abstract
For centuries, libraries were physical representations of human knowledge and power held by privileged classes. Over time, they evolved into substantial social and urban infrastructures. From purely knowledge-acquisition institutions, they transformed into inclusive spaces, facing the issues of equality and multiculturalism.
The Stockholm Library, built in 1928 by the Swedish architect Gunnar Asplund was pioneering at that time and among the first, to open its stacks to the public. However, as a near century passed, the library needed to face the ever-changing nature of society and culture. Since 2006, proposals have been made to adjust the library for contemporary challenges, yet none of them have been realised due to the concerns raised by the public and their emotional attachment to the library.
The proposed extension aims to restore the intended characteristics of the educational area around Observatory Hill in Stockholm, including the typology of the modern library and its heritage. In the current situation, the Stockholm Library on its own does not fulfil the typology of a modern library. Currently, it serves as a calm temple of focus, however, it lacks facilities for diverse activities through which people can learn and appears disconnected from the hillside context.
The extension seeks to foster community and provide room for interactions as well as exploration, crucial for a culturally diverse city like Stockholm. Migrants and minorities are often marginalised and are provided with little to no integration opportunities.
On the other hand, with respect to the locals who deeply value the culture and heritage of Stockholm, the objective was to faithfully realize the architect’s concepts while respecting its historical context.
The ‘Spaces in Between’ concept proposes vast public space for new learning activities, without compromising the character of existing establishments. Moreover, it is a physical manifestation of the connection between the library and the observatory hill which together create an educational haven.