Badia-Berger: Science Library

Paris-based architects Badia-Berger Architectes have recently completed the University of Versailles Science Library, in Versailles, France. The building acts as a connector inside the university campus, uniting the eastern sloped park and the western sporting grounds, which determines that it doesn't have a main façade, rather, a central position from which its multidirectional nature stems.

The library is comprised of three juxtaposing volumes intersected by a series of voids, which allow for abundant daylight to pour into the building, as well as creating a series of transparencies between the two connected terrains — the park and the sporting grounds. The three separate volumes harbour respectively the entry hall, the reading rooms and internal spaces. "The shape is an expression of our perception of the program and our response to the requirements of a low energy building," state architects Marie-Hélène Badia and Didier Berger, "fully acknowledging lighting and thermal comfort as well as highlighting the site's contrasts."

The indoor layout of the library was designed to be as clear as possible: the entry hall is located at an intermediate level, with a monumental staircase leading to two large reading rooms. The architects sought to endow the reception area with a convivial atmosphere. The different ceiling heights allow visitors to access simultaneous views of different floor levels, making apparent the flexible organisation of the library.

The building's inner skin seeks to amplify the idea of organic architecture, using the sheds to suspend the upper floor beam. The large trusses within the sheds suspend the upper reading room, liberating the floor plan from any columns. Thus, the inside and outside communicate freely, allowing the façades to become an "indoor show" for visitors.

Badia-Berger Architectes: University of Versailles Science Library
Location: Versailles, France
Architects: Badia-Berger Architectes
Program: university library
Completion: 2012