The New Building

a architect(s)

18 Firm

Anttinen Oiva Architects Finland; www.aoa.fi

19 Project Architect

Matti Huhtamies

20 Type of project

new building

b aims of the new building

21 Short description of the main objectives and purposes of the project

The University of Helsinki developed its library structure by joining together the four faculty libraries (humanities, law, social sciences, theology) and the Undergraduate library of its Central Campus which were dispersed around different parts of the city center. Also the Joint Services of Helsinki University Library operate in the building. Floor area is the same as before. Main designing goals were: flexibility, functionality, ergonomy, recreational space, sound zones, acoustics, accessibility, logistics. The facilities have been divided into functional zones.

c special features

22 Site

The building is located in the very center of the city, close by the university’s main building(s).

23 Architecture

The library building complements the urban block by adding a curved brick façade, integrated within the street line formed by the adjacent buildings. The fence fenestration grid, which blurs the standard floor division, together with the large arched openings give the library a district external appearance. The terraced reading galleries in the interior also show in the façade between the large arched openings. By varying the size of the arched openings the building is fitted as integrative solution of three different types of street space.