Competition Vienna University Library

Design principles

To achieve and develop a significant and attractive spacious area, the library's new entrance is centrally located on Reichsratsstraße along with its existing side entrances.  Through the transparent sidewalk level and the new glass roof, the view of the open stacks from the public street space transports a modern, impulsing image that contrasts to the historical architecture.  
The entire rear area of the University has been upgraded efficiently enabling a connection between the outer space and the library area. Through decorative elements in the historic facade, the function and representation of the the library are legible and accessible for outdoor pedestrians.  Analog to the ramp system of the main entrance connects bridges of the Reichsratsstraße with new entrances. The broad sidewalk along the Reichsratsstraße is additionally enhanced by a row of trees.

A generous free supporting foyer opens and connects the individual functional areas, such as the exhibition space, lending areas, open stack areas, magazine division and large reading room with flat sloping ramps. The existing ceiling of the reading room will contain glass panels around the borders for exposing light at varoius levels.  Two Vierendeel trusses between the existing main pillars support the floor carpeting in the main reading room.  It takes the loads off where levels suspend from steel cords. The reconstruction of the functional areas under the main reading room is done without interrupting library operation.
Through double glazed glass roofs, the open stack areas receive optimal natural light exposure.