Berlin State Library
The proposed intervention for the Berlin State Library pays homage to the urban relationship between Potsdamer Platz and Kulturforum. The structure, called “Little Scharoun”, offers spaces for visitors to linger and enjoy. Unobtrusively and elegantly, the intervention fulfills multiple functions as an entrance for the state library, foyer, conference centre, and office.
The design is based on the introduction of three areas divided according to noise intensity: the library as a ‘quiet’ area, the foyer as a ‘whispering’ area and the restaurant as a ‘buzz’ area oriented towards the façade. Transparent but effective sound insulation is installed to shield the library's quiet area. The foyer is transformed into an inviting entrance where visitors can move freely - shop, meet, study or get information about the library; without disturbing the quieter spaces. This design maintains the original spatial qualities and the core function of the State Library.
Info
- Location
- Berlin, DE
- Date
- 2019
- Size
- 1,500 sqm
- Team
- Adam Kelly, Dikkie Scipio, Hannes Ochmann, Kees Kaan, Loes Martens, Moritz Kühl, Narine Gyulkhasyan, Nigel Flanagan, Pia Schauder, Rita Alessio, Valentina Bencic, Vincent Panhuysen
