The new library is a purpose-built facility that has been built under the Grade-II listed Waterloo Bridge. The new facility is completely assessable and features certain noteworthy features, such as hanging bronze mesh, timber bookcases and subtle new lighting; which create a rich, vibrant, welcoming and calm space.
The design of the new library meets three specifications of transparency, noise attenuation and control, and flexibility stressed by the developer. To meet these criteria, the designer has created small pockets of dedicated, quiet study areas within the vibrant and dynamic space. The library is multifunctional and allows its usage for events and programmed activities as well.
The entry to the library is through a transparent glass entrance wall, which connects it to the other venues at the site. It also brings in light and enable filmic events to connect between its foyer and informal area. The entry wall doubles as a projection screen, giving the visitors an illusion of entering into the film itself. The entry wall is the fourth wall of the library.
The entire library is divided into three areas for casual readers, researchers and serious academics. The library staffs are stationed at a centralised, panoptical library desk area, from where they have an unobstructed view of the entire space that includes both formal and informal areas.
The designer has incorporated traditional materials in the library, with a modern twist. These material palettes comprise bronze mesh acoustic curtains with aluminum BISCAY wire mesh finish, oak carpentry and red leather.
Coffey Architects have placed lights between the curtains that create a moiré of light, material, shadow and reflection. The walls have acoustic materials to reduce the reverberation time within the library. Further acoustic efficiency in the quiet study/research areas is achieved by the incorporation of bronze mesh.
The new library is located on the Southbank and replaces the former library of BFI at Stephen Street, WC1. Construction work on the scheme was provided by Cameron Black.
