Helsinki Central Library | OODA

In response to the competition held by the city of Helsinki in 2012 for a new central library, OODA summited this proposal with a total area of 10,100 square meters. When designing this building OODA wanted to redefine the idea of a library in a matter that was no longer exclusively dedicated to the book, but as an information place where all vibrant forms of media, new and old, are presented equally. In the same regard of integrating the old and new forms of media within the library, the design also acts as a shifting point between the ancient and modern urban city networks surrounding the building. The end result is a dynamic entity, fully equipped comprising of physical spaces as well as technology.

photography by © Tuomas Uusheimo

Incorporating a combination of personal cultivation, culture enhancement and entertainment, the library is seen as a symbol of attraction and connectivity providing not only a space to read but a social center with multiple responsibilities as well. The primary division of the program is articulated by the two different peeks of the building that are linked with an organic seamless surface that activates public use by appearing to grow out of the ground plane. This display is enhanced by the clear difference between the texture and identity of the roof surface in comparison to the transparency and dynamism of the façade composition.

photography by © Tuomas Uusheimo

Three semi public spaces, or voids, create a transition space between the external public space and the library interiors. To resolve the problems seen in traditional library organization including flatness and individual organization, this library proposes a multi-level space experience that has the entire required program connected through a central area that simultaneously receives and guides the public to interact with the building. The design also functions as an integrated rotation point between the two emerging volumes and its programmatic settlement.

photography by © Tuomas Uusheimo

Developed in a bio efficient way, the proposal by OODA for the Helsinki Central Library forms a significant and high quality building that relates to society and utilizes all forms of media in an organized way to give it a vital and dynamic quality of spaces while still representing a place for education and knowledge.