The design of the new library in Olomouc transforms a former district heating facility into an open cultural centre with a strong community focus. The original building is a single-storey structure with a relatively spacious volume. This fact, together with the decision to preserve the original load-bearing structure for economic reasons, led us to a solution consisting of a simple inserted structure running along the perimeter of the building, creating a gallery with an open central space. A glazed roof light is then placed on the existing structural system, supported by steel trusses integrated into the original load-bearing framework. The combination of these elements, which form the backbone of the entire design, results in an airy, clear, and well-lit space. A space that may be intended for cultural use.
The library operation is designed to be open and adaptable. It is not only a place for books; the shelves in the main hall are movable, allowing the space to be easily transformed for various events such as lectures, workshops, or community gatherings of different groups of residents. The interior also includes a slide, introducing a playful element and making the library more accessible to young readers. Daylight plays an important role here as well. Thanks to the height of the original structure, it penetrates deep into the interior and changes throughout the day. Light thus helps define the character of individual zones – the centre is bright and lively, while the edges are calmer and suitable for reading and concentration. The differences between the zones arise naturally, without the need for strong spatial separation.
In a broader context, the new library responds to the surrounding housing estate, where there is often a lack of quality spaces for leisure activities. By transforming the original technical building, a new centre is created that can revitalize the entire area. An important component is also the outdoor community garden, which directly connects to the library hall and becomes an integral part of the space.
The project was developed based on the winning proposal in an open architectural competition announced by the City of Olomouc in 2020. From 58 submissions, the jury selected ours, praising the well-considered spatial organization and the fulfilment of operational requirements. The interior, almost self-evident order of arrangement, offers a remarkable and even playful spatial composition of the entire interior…