studio of Mari Ito, UAo. A geometric composition out of glass, metal and timber, the building feels at once modern and at home in its wider context – as its design, explains the architect, has been inspired by forests, which are ‘an important part of the city’s identity.’ A glass enclosure wrapping around the building creates a semi-transparent border, which allows glimpses through to what’s happening inside and keeps climatic conditions safe and comfortable for books and people.
The fairly large scale structure has been organised around, what its creator calls, ‘forest pockets’. ‘When we step into a forest, we sense the subtle yet constant changes in season, weather, and plant and animal life, absorbing these transformations in multiple emotionally powerful ways,’ say the architects.
Their arrangement across the floor also mirrors the pie charts used in the Japanese library classification system. This helps with ‘improving searchability and enabling circulation routes that cut across the categorized stacks.’ Addressing the new roles of modern libraries – a place for friends to meet, a vibrant hub for the wider community, a multi-platform centre for learning – the Nasushiobara library and centre plans to be much more than ‘just’ a building to house books. Sparking interaction, promoting knowledge and strengthening community ties, this new building is set to inspire and prove a powerful resource for all locals.