After an international competition, the contract for the extension and renovation of the Main Library at the University of Graz in Austria has been awarded to Atelier Thomas Pucher. The project, located at the heart of the campus, includes the addition of a 430 student auditorium; 650 reading/work areas; study and examination rooms; and administrative and storage areas. Read more about the winning design proposal after the break.
From the architect: The design fulfills the requirements of a 21st century library. Volumes of these functional areas will be independently implemented and three dimensionally combined creating an ensemble of various structures, functions, spaces and styles.
A new generous plaza defines the main entrance, creating the necessary free space. The new design partially reveals the original building of the library, with the original façade from 1895 exposed. The design shows a clear distinction between new buildings and landmarked buildings.
The public areas of the library constitute a floating bar on the roof of the historic building. A foyer between the main building and the library forms a new central meeting point. The new auditorium is located in the basement under the newly created square.
Architects
Location
University of Graz, 8010 Graz, AustriaProject Team
Thomas Pucher, Erich Ranegger, Bartlomiej Poteralski, Johannes Stöffler, Magnus Griesbeck, Marvi BashaClient
Bundesimmobiliengesellschaft m.b.H.Project Year
2019Photographs
Courtesy of Atelier Thomas PucherLocation
University of Graz, 8010 Graz, AustriaProject Year
2019Photographs
Courtesy of Atelier Thomas Pucher