For my primary research I visited David Wilson library in the University of Leicester. The library was designed by the architectural firm, Associated Architects in 2008.
Upon arriving at the University, it was quite easy to find the library following the signs, it was about a 2 minutes walk from the main entrance. I was able to notice the library right away as it stood out from all the other architecture on the campus. The building looked more modern as it had been recently done compared to the decades old architecture that has most likely been there since the opening of the university.
The most prominent feature in the building is its extensive use of glass all around. The glass panels allow natural light to flow into the interior. It also doubles in function as windows which will allow air to come in and increase ventilation. The building also has a geometric and symmetrical shape creating a visually balanced appearance. The combination of the glass and the clean lines of the building enhances the buildings modern aesthetic.
It also has a seating area in front of the main entrance of the building which encourages social interaction among students. The placement of benches also offers a place for outdoor study and relaxation. I observed students drinking coffee on the benches so I assume there is a cafe inside the library. Furthermore, several oddly shaped chairs could be seen in front of the library. The angular shape of the chair and material used (likely concrete) were a significant contrast to the other outdoor furniture. This could've been just an artistic element as no one seemed to use the chair and I also found it slightly uncomfortable to sit on, but the implementation of it could've also been to encourage people to interact with it and the space around it as I was also intrigued by it.
Towards the left of the building, still in front of it. there was a sculpture placed there. It looked abstract and fluid which contrasted with the straight form of the library. I later found out sculpture is called FLIGHT and was made by sculptor Helaine Blumenfeld and was unveiled in 2014 (engineroom, 2014). Blumenfeld also states, “FLIGHT is about reaching upwards, about aspiration, about the existence of a higher realm of being. I am very pleased to have FLIGHT standing at the entrance to the David Wilson Library...." (Blumenfeld, 2014). I also observed a sculpture similar to this on the lawn in front of the Fielding Johnson Building. The sculpture serves as an artistic statement and also a landmark for the library.
Another part of the library I took notice of were the access point. There is one main entrance for students at the front of the library. Leading up to it, there are stairs on the left hand side of the building and towards the right, there is a slight incline for wheel chair access but it is not too much as the main entrance of the building relatively level with the surrounding pavement. This shows inclusivity and their commitment to making sure the library is as easily accessible as possible.
Beside the steps leading to the entrance, there were also steps leading undergroung which I found to be a bike store. This was an effective way to make use of available space, by also having the store underground it frees up surface level space for other things such as the seating areas and pathways.
Finally, while walking around the building there was another entrance to the side which was restricted. There was a space painted on the floor which said 'Attended Unloading Only' so I assumed it was back door access for deliveries. Walking further down the side of the library led to a car park so I believe that is were the delivery vans come from. The library also showed a continuous use of material and form all around it
This research offered me insight into the design of a library. It showed me how space can impact user experience and the different approaches used to ensure functionality without it impacting the visual appeal of the building. It prompted me to think more critically about how space is used and how to consider and integrate this into my design more fully. Moving on I need to ensure my design is not only visually pleasing but environmentally responsible.
References
engineroom (2014). Monumental bronze sculpture FLIGHT unveiled at University of Leicester. [online]. Available at: https://www.helaineblumenfeld.com/monumental-bronze-sculpture-flight-unveiled-at-university-of-leicester/ [Accessed 18 Aug. 2024].
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In a follow post - perhaps with your elevation or section drawings - discuss how the experience of going to the University of Leicester library has helped from a practical perspective.
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