After carefully considering six international architecture firms - Ammar Curiel; Frank Gehry; Herzog & de Meuron; Kimmel Eshkolot, Kolker Kolker Epstein and Renzo Piano - an esteemed selection committee has chosen Herzog & de Meuron to design the new National Library of Israel in Jerusalem. The result comes after a controversial first attempt that ended in the dismissal of the initial competition winner for alleged copyright infringement.
More information after the break...
Rather than submitting proposals, the entrants underwent an extensive interview process. As reported by The National Library of Israel, the panel was “extraordinarily impressed by the commitment shown by Jacques Herzog & Pierre de Meuron, as well as by the strengths and promise of their architectural approach – their handling of the natural and urban landscape, the connection with the surrounding institutions and the interpretation of the Library program. It was both innovative and clearly focused.”
In addition, the “strong and creative” Basel-based team was lauded for sharing a “clear openness to dialogue with the client, bringing their experience and precise working methods to the design process.”
The recommendation of the panel for the architect (who will become the Selected Architect upon entering into an agreement), has been approved by the Board of Directors of the National Library and by the Board of Directors of the National Library Construction Company.
National Library of Israel Selection Committee:
- Prof. Luis Fernández-Galiano (Jury Chair)
- Prof. Elinoar Komissar-Barzachi
- Lord Rothschild, Chair of Yad Hanadiv
- David Blumberg, Chair of the Library
