| Architect |
Santiago
Calatrava |
| Date Built |
1989 - 1994 |
| Location |
Rämistrasse
71
8006 Zürich |
| Description |
|
The Law Faculty Library of
Zurich University occupies a remodeled
former laboratory building that dates from
1908. The new library is inserted
into the existing courtyard of the
historic building. The architect's
website explains that he added a, "...
hydraulically movable pleated curtain
of collapsible blades to provide the
reading rooms with controlled natural
light from the ceiling, which also
function as acoustic tiles.
Ultimately, Calatrava also provided
his artworks for the building
including a nine feet high bronze
sculpture installed in the lobby."
The "phaidonatlas.com" website explains
that, "... The transformation of
the building is barely evident on its
principal facade ..... .... and it is only by entering the light-filled void of the new library that the contrast between the old and the new is fully revealed to the visitor. Six floors of elliptical galleries appear to float beneath a glass-covered dome. The spine of a curved box girder with transversal ribs supports the large roof light."         ********************** Calatrava also provided the art work that is on display in the lobby.    |
|
|
University
of Zurich Law Faculty Library, Switzerland
 |
