The last stages of design required the resolution of
unexpected issues and a last minute alteration on the location of the building.
Last but not least, the problem of how to integrate spaces for different
learning stages was tackled and solved.
The problem of dividing library spaces appropriately was the
most difficult issue to solve. The decision made at the earliest stages to keep
with the theme of languages presented problems that could not be broken down
into simple age groups, or even learning stages. In an English-speaking and
largely mono-lingual context, children often come to their second language at
different stages and naturally learn at different rates.
Also, there is the issue of which language to foster. The
library is not small, but providing enough space to support several languages
was difficult. This is especially true because one of the problems facing
English speakers learning a second language is a simple lack of opportunity to
practice in context.
These two problems were solved simultaneously with the creation
of "Language Zones" within the library that provide a space students
can immerse themselves in one language. Each is a reconfigurable multi-media
space packed with magazines, music, posters, video and even vending machines
all in the language being presented. This creates a small zone where children
can practice the Immersion technique. These zones can easily be reconfigured to
take different languages, allowing possibilities for languages to be
"booked in" for intensive activities.
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| The Different floors are split into reconfigurable Language Zones |
The concept of live and loud Language Zones that encouraged
interaction and conversation also provides a place for younger children who
require a more interactive environment. Coupled with the Courtyard, these
spaces encourage the most essential part of learning a language; practice.
Meanwhile, quieter, more traditional learning spaces are provided on the upper
level, along with a Language Theater for presenting and viewing audio and
visual material in different languages.
The issue of what to do about the Courtyard and the stair
was resolved by a late alteration in
building location and orientation. The entire building was moved to the river's
edge where the curved outer wall fit neatly onto a small outcrop on the bank.
This presented the lifts and foyer to the main Riverwalk Path. It also pressed
the courtyard "entrance" out over the river.
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| Site Plan (with ground floor exposed) showing new location on the river bank, and the slight change in orientation |
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| Site Section looking West |
This transformed the open space from a second, conflicting,
threshold into a more secluded inner space that opens onto the river. The Courtyard
and river view can still be accessed from the main Riverwalk, but it is no
longer a main entry. Rather, it is now more of an internal space that gives
access to the exterior.
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| What was previously the Courtyard entrance is now a place to view and experience the river |
This shift finally resolved the issue of what to do about
the stair. Relieved of its task of being a hidden main entry, the central stair
is now a fixture for the Courtyard, providing a place to enter and leave the
building, but also to serve as a focus for the open space below. The stairs are
now shallower, with a going of 250mm which encourages seating and reinforces the
idea that the Courtyard is more a place than a thoroughfare.
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| Model shown in view from the river. The South section now requires a retaining wall embedded in the bank |
