Cañada Rosal Municipal Library

In 2005 Cañada Rosal Town Council (Seville) launched an architectural competition in collaboration with the Empresa Pública de Suelo de Andalucía (EPSA - part of the regional government of Andalusia) to design a public library. MEDIOMUNDO arquitectos was awarded first prize for their proposal and the construction of the public library was completed in 2009.

When designing the public library we proposed creating a meeting point for information and culture. Under a continuous roof, whose folds create a dialogue with neighbouring constructions, consecutive interior spaces are defined by light entering via skylights. The homogeneity of the materials used in the construction is diminished due to sequences of light and shadow that create an increasing degree of privacy as one moves from the entrance to the most intimate part of the library located near the patio and the childrens area. In this way the library becomes a gradual extension of public space.

The project proposed a very simple layout for the optimal use of space. Visitors enter via a double-height lobby, a place of exchange with the public space outside. In it shelves and a bulletin board hide a staircase that leads to the reading room on the top floor. The elevator and ancillary services are located on the ground floor immediately after the lobby. This transitional area makes way to a reference section, audio books, computers and press. Next comes a childrens area accentuated by an overhead laylight that leads into the rear courtyard.

The reading room is located on the top floor. To reach the administration area visitors must cross a bridge that overlooks the childrens area below. The folds in the roof define the spatial sequence on this floor. Two skylights, the courtyard and the openings in the facade are the sources of natural light. Meanwhile, the walls themselves have been converted into built-in shelves and bookcases to ensure maximum fluidity and continuity of space.

Programme: Municipal Library
Location: Plaza Sta. Ana, Cañada Rosal (Seville)
Dates, phases:
Competition: 2005
Project: 2006
Built/Completion: 2009
Awards: 1st Prize
Category: Library and Social Services
Area: 200 m2
Developer: Empresa Pública de Suelo de Andalucía (EPSA part of the Regional Government of Andalusia)