New Library St. Gallen, Switzerland

Too often existing buildings are demolished without appreciating their historical and spatial value, diminishing the rich history of the city. My design therefore targets not only the creation of contemporary architecture, but also to form an aesthetic and functional unit out of the interplay between existing and new builds.

The objective of this diploma thesis is to create a credible, feasible and implementable project for the new library at the marketplace in St. Gallen. Although the Union Building is not designed to carry the weight of the bookshelves, it still offers enough space for administrative rooms and creates workplaces to accommodate library visitors. Hence the focus of the new build will be on reading and learning. The separation of the primary and ancillary use is not only reflected in the interior concept, but also in the overall architecture. \nThis is also represented in the hierarchy of the buildings. The low buildings are the connecting links that optical compensate floor level differences to harmonise the different structural shells to a single unit. The tower of the library clearly dominates the landscape without hurting the harmonious proportions and interplay of the buildings. The new build smoothly completes and characterises the market's image as a historical and central place and thus, improves the ensemble. \nThe uses are zoned and structured through the main axis of the building, which simultaneously connects the old and new build. Resulting from this, the clear structure allows visitors to intuitively find their ways on every floor. \nThe architecture of the building deals with the needs of the individual user groups. Based on their respective claims, each cabinet has its own special areas. Reading opportunities are increasingly becoming private along the axis, including an open space, group and individual workstations. \nTo accomplish the target of a perfect balancing act between integration and boundary a steel façade was chosen. A material which adapts to the old but emphasises its own character. Large window openings with bronze-coloured aluminium frames allow a bright and pleasant light incidence in the interior. \nThe successful fusion of the old and new build respects and maintains the urban development, and promotes learning through its friendly and visitor-oriented architecture.