The Datong Library according to the architects is a proposition, which seeks to resolve the tension between the two traditional roles of a library; the role of being a storehouse of knowledge and that of a community focal point. The resulting form of the building therefore brings to the fore this tension, centering on dynamic spaces and progressive circulation. Below are exerpts from the description provided by the architects.
Courtesy of Preston scott cohen
At the heart of the spaces of public promenade is a garden courtyard, around which classrooms, a gallery, informal reading rooms, and an auditorium are arrayed. The symmetrical pair of the courtyard, an expansive atrium, ties four floors of book stacks together. The atrium is surrounded by a continuous, four-storey helical ramp lined with bookshelves and study carrels. Besides perceptually tying the stack and reading areas together, the book ramp represents a typological advance in library design inspired by Asplund’s Stockholm Library.
Courtesy of Preston scott cohen
Cutting-edge parametric software originally intended for use in aircraft design was used from the project’s inception, allowing the building form to retain its essential relational properties while allowing the precise shape to be changed rapidly and dramatically without requiring substantial redesign. This proved to be invaluable throughout design development: not only was the masterplan changed – along with important site constraints – but the program underwent substantial revision through meetings with the projects stakeholders.
Courtesy of Preston scott cohen
Project info:
Client: Datong city government
total area: 20,000 m2
Location: China
project schedule: design-2009-2010, construction– 2011-2013
project team
Architectural Design: Preston Scott Cohen
Project architect: amit nemlich
Project assistants: matthew allen, carl d’apolito-dworkin, collin gardner, michelle chang, juan jofre, mary stuckert, janna kauss
Development and Presentation: Matthew Allen, Collin Gardner, Michelle Chang, Blair Cranston, Juan Jofre, Mary Stuckert, Janna Kauss, Dan Sullivan, Matt Storus, Paul Dahlke
Anastasia Andreieva is an accomplished Architectural Projects Editor at Arch2O, bringing a unique blend of linguistic expertise and design enthusiasm to the team. Born and raised in Ukraine, she holds a Master’s degree in Languages from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. Her deep passion for architecture and visual storytelling led her to transition from translation and editorial roles into the world of design media. With a keen eye for conceptual clarity and narrative structure, Anastasia curates and presents global architectural projects with precision and flair. She is particularly drawn to parametric and digital design, cultural context, and emerging voices in architecture. When I’m not analyzing the latest architectural trends, you’ll probably find me searching for hidden gems in cityscapes or appreciating the beauty of well-crafted spaces. After all, great design—like great connections—can be found in the most unexpected places. Speaking of connections, because architecture isn’t the only thing that brings people together.