Plans for new Library of Birmingham revealed
The first image of the new £193 million library which will transform Birmingham’s Centenary Square when it opens in 2013 has been revealed to the public.
Dutch architect Francine Houben and her firm Mecanoo have come up with a landmark building to dominate the square and meet the demands of a 21st century library service.
With 31,000 square metres of floor space squeezed between the Birmingham Repertory Theatre and Baskerville House the library reaches ten storeys high - topped with balconies and elevated gardens.
And most striking feature of all is the subterranean levels which reach under Centenary Square beneath ground level, breaking out with a sunken circular open air amphitheatre - where musicians can serenade passers by.
It’s glazed elevations are fronted with circle patterned fine metal layer inspired by Birmingham’s industrial and jewellary manufacturing tradition - a far cry from the concrete finish of the brutalist Central Library which it is set to replace.
The grand scheme was today unveiled by Birmingham City Council leader Mike Whitby, architect Ms Houben and partners from the Birmingham Repertory Theatre.
As well as a lasting landmark for the Birmingham, Mr Whitby sees it as a major economic boost for the city at a time when construction is slowing and the recession is biting.
He said: “Despite the global economic slowdown, demand for and confidence in Birmingham has never been higher.
“The new library will be an iconic landmark and a testament to the role Birmingham will play in the 21st century as a truly global city.
“The new designs are further evidence of our intention to attract world-class architects to work with the City, and these designs support our ambition to create a building which will bring people together, nurture creativity, allow far greater access to our cultural heritage, and act as a focal hub within the city and the region.”
And with the funding from taxpayers, council borrowing and the eventual sale of council land and only limited private sector sponsorship or investment the building will not fall victim to the credit crunch.
As well as providing exhibition space for many of the city’s hidden historic archives, including Shakespeare’s First Folio of 1623, the library will be equipped with the latest digital technology and designed to meet the demands of the 21st Century.
It will share the entrance foyer, cafe, exhibition space and 300 seat auditorium with the neighbouring theatre.
Theatre director Stuart Rogers said: “We are delighted with the highly imaginative way that Mecanoo are planning to link the distinctive and much-loved Birmingham
