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Halmstad Library -
schmidt hammer lassen Building PR Feb07:
SHL complete new library in Halmstad, Sweden
Halmstad Library is set within a parkland setting overlooking the River
Nissan and the towns historic centre. The architectural form was
predicated by a mature chestnut tree which now forms the focal point of
the circular atrium. The librarys long curved glass façade
creates an immediate sense of connection with the librarys parkland
context whilst the building also acts as a link between the historic centre
and the newer districts beyond.
Building Photos © Adam Mørk
The buildings internal layout is essentially one single open space,
flexible and highly legible: the light and airy structure creates a synergy
between the structural columns and the trees outside. The atrium functions
as a fulcrum for the entire scheme and also provides vertical connection
for the librarys three floors. Surrounding the atrium is the information
plaza: an active zone containing reception, computer terminals, exhibitions,
a café and a stairway to the balcony floor, and to the stacks in
the basement. Set around this zone are the librarys various subject
zones, each imbued with a sense of tranquility and light, affording users
generous space in which to reflect, read and be inspired.
Constructed using a simple palette of materials - concrete, glass and
Nordic larch flooring the new librarys sculptural form has
created a landmark for the cultural life of Halmstad and the wider community.
Halmstads new library joins SHLs growing portfolio of distinctive
cultural buildings. Other libraries by the practice include the Royal
Library in Copenhagen, the Cultural Island in Middelfart,
Denmark, the library at the ARoS art museum in Aarhus, Denmark, and Växjö
City Library in Sweden.
Halmstad Library - Building Information:
Client: Halmstad Municipality
Area: 8,000m2
Construction Sum: EUR 12m excl. VAT
Award: 1st prize
Design 2001 2004; Construction Period: 2004-2006
Engineer: Rambøll, Sweeden
Turnkey contractor: Traditional procurement
Halmstad Library Sweden: Building PR from ING Media 230207
Swedish Architecture
Halmstad Library architects
: schmidt hammer lassen
World Architecture : e-architect
- a guide to key buildings across the globe
Swedish Library building : Vaxjo
Another building by Halmstad
Library architects: Aberdeen Library
Swedish Library : Stockholm
Comments / photos for the Halmstad Library Sweden page welcome:
info@e-architect.co.uk
Halmstad Library Sweden : page - adrian welch
/ isabelle lomholt
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