Library Renovation
Duration_ Aug.2015 - Oct.2015 Institution_ South China Agricultural University
Site Condition
The site locates inside the South China Agricultural University. This landmark construction was the old library built in 1953, witnessing the transformation of the university for more than 60 years. However, after 64 years’ existence, the antiquated architecture no longer conforms to the contemporary function and is out of use. Locating in a conspicuous spot where hundreds of students pass by every day the “passive” construction demonstrates incongruity to the surrounding.
Politic Background- Stalinist architecture
Influenced by the political situation during this period, the original library indicates the characteristics of Stalinist architecture, which is associated with the socialist realism school of art and architecture. In my opinion, the historical impact on the architecture should be respected but utilized discriminately in order to build up a construction capable to sustain for a long period in the changing world.
Site
Lying opposite across the street, the school auditorium also built in 1950s is now a national academic conference center, showing great prosperity. The great contrast shocked me and also enlightened me. I felt like the old building was telling her stories to me, I felt impelled to make her vibrant again.
Top 5 Design Strategy
Add canopy to the two wasted courtyard
Replace the huge step with grass slope
Utilize staris adjacent to the facade
A new path leading to the back hill
A new curvy corridor with exhibition space
Walking to back hill
Before Renovation
Transformation Process
After Renovation
The man watching outside can also become the part of scenery to whom is watching inside. With the courtyard becoming a part of inner space, the windows frame the sceneries and build up conversation side to side.
Space Configuration
Think about the light.
The Goddess