Dalarna University Media Library by ADEPT

476shares
Share
Tweet

Together with an international team, ADEPT has designed the new library at Dalarna University in Sweden, creating a multi functional design that naturally integrates into the surround landscape at the university’s campus in Falun. The 3000 m² space was designed as a dynamic meeting place with activities for students, staff and visitors to the Dalarna University. The building was officially opened to public this spring, and is currently shortlisted for the World Architecture Festival Award.

Image © Wilhelm Rejnus & Linus Flodin

The new Dalarna Media Library was organized as a ‘spiral of knowledge’ identifying a new library culture that stages a wide spectre of experiences and inspiration. The natural terrain of the surrounding landscape is continued as a ramp that spirals up through the central atrium of the library – its heart – where all search of information and orientation take place.

Dalarna University Media Library by ADEPT - Arena

Image © Wilhelm Rejnus & Linus Flodin

The library has really become the study environment and the meeting place that we hoped for it to be. The students have taken it to their hearts instantly and uses group spaces and the rest of the study options intensively. Often all the group rooms are fully booked. The Library has even become a very popular place to meet each other – and already we will have a load of activities planned to take place in the arena.

– Margareta Malmgren, Library Director, Dalarna university

Image © Wilhelm Rejnus & Linus Flodin

The spatial organization of the library creates a variety of study environments, allowing students to choose between the collaborative ‘heart of the library’, or private areas located along the facade. The variation of sound levels and the separation of activities transform the library into a rich environment.

Dalarna University Media Library by ADEPT - Arena, individual study place

Image © KÜre Viemose

ADEPT has collaborated with Danish artist Jeppe Hein to develop the characteristic double facade with reflecting horizontal lamellae fronting wood cladding. The detailed facade was turned into an art piece itself, mirroring its surrounding and the people in it with broken reflections. The lamellae were made from highly polished stainless steel, while the wooden background used siberian larch.

Image © Wilhelm Rejnus & Linus Flodin

Dalarna University Media Library by ADEPT - Facade reflection

Image © KÜre Viemose

The new Media Library became the new entrance to the university, and its main attraction. The surrounding spaces have been transformed from a large parking lot to an integrated urban plaza, which optimizes the public spaces around the building into defined activity zones and intimate recreational areas. The library functions have been pushed out to the new plaza emphasizing the new main entrance.