Department of ARCHITECTURE completed the thoughtful space of the Architecture Library at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand.

In the near future, will we still read physical books or need physical space for libraries? How do people use libraries differently with the change of lifestyle and the presence of the internet which has changed the way we access information and knowledge?

The project explores new possibilities of how a library could become.

Libraries today may continue to play an important role as learning space but it may not be the
same anymore. There is an urge to rethink what a learning space is; and in particular what a
learning space for an architecture school could become. To re-activate the library, the project
has expanded the meaning of the architecture library to be more than a place for reading books, but to become ‘a creative incubator’ for students of architecture. Various programs are integrated into the new library. They range from a co-working space, an exhibition space, a pinup space to an occasional lecture space where the library becomes a place for the exchange of ideas, and it includes not only physical books as sources of knowledge and inspiration but also digital media, movies, exhibition, etc.

On its first level, a 3Ds grid system enveloping a co-working space provides an open-ended
platform for students to create exhibitions or various events, to hang, to fasten, to insert, or to do anything with it. It becomes an experimental ground for architecture students to act on the
space. The ever changing exhibitions from various studios in the schools could inspire one
another. The system is also available for pin-up spaces with magnetic pin boards and digital
screen where anyone who walk pass can stop by to join the discussions.

Although today a great deal of information is online. Content in books still have a different
nature of curation and depth. While digital data already surrounds us virtually, the physical
space of the library attempts to surround us with physical books and magazines. Showcase
spaces showing book covers facing out are maximized, rather than the usual compressed
stacks we see only book spines, inviting people to pick them up to read them.

There still be a quiet zone for those who need to concentrate. Carrels are rearranged in a
labyrinth configuration to minimize disturbance from the circulation around. The reflective
ceiling reveals the plan of the luminous maze.

On the top floor, the pixelated steps are reading area that, with rearrangement of the cushions,
can be turned into an auditorium for occasional lectures or movies as another source of inspiration.

Different atmospheres and seating types allow people to choose according to their preference,
from co-working space, tables looking to the outside, a quiet area, low table and sofa space for
a relaxing setting, even to sitting on the floor. The students who work all night may even find a
space to take a power nap on the mattress area on the mezzanine to refresh themselves before going to the next class.

The highest location of the library, on the top floor ceiling, embeds a commemoration of King
Rama IX. It portrays the King not with his image but with his important urban projects that have immense positive impact on the city and inspire us on his unique philosophy on the urban
planning approach.

Architect: Department of ARCHITECTURE
Design Team: Twitee Vajrabhaya Amata Luphaiboon, Chaiyapat Mirasena, Boonvadee Laoticharoen, Pattamapa Komonniramit
Photography: W Workspace