Renovation of the University Library of Human and Social Sciences on the Pont de Bois campus of the University of Lille. The project also includes a cafeteria, exhibition spaces, an associated Learning Lab with collaborative work areas, a relaxation area, collection consultation spaces, a research hub, and a book storage silo.

The project involves the restructuring of a late-1960s slab-built structure, disconnected from its natural ground and inward-looking. Our most significant intervention is located within the library itself, with the creation of an iconic feature: a central atrium inhabited by a staircase that becomes seating, a library, and an exhibition space. This element overturns the traditional organization of the library—entry is now made at its very heart.

“Our design philosophy is based on a simple principle: to understand, respect, and reveal the original architecture of the library, in order to conceive a meaningful and desirable future for it. The project takes advantage of the specific nature of slab architecture, where access is provided at an intermediate level. By opening the garden level to the public and redefining the relationship to the ground, the entrance is now located at the core of the library.

Our intervention proposes to reopen the campus to the surrounding landscape by restoring contact with the natural terrain. The garden level is completely reconfigured to enable direct access to the wooded park.”

See the University of Lille blog.