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Bibliothèque + Centre communautaire Marieville (concours)
By : Anne Carrier architecture
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 14th edition
Discipline : Architecture
Categories : Other categories in architecture / Concept in architecture : Platinum Winner
Libraries have undergone major transformations over the last few years as their mission became more inclusive in many cities, large and small. No longer restricted to book lovers, they now offer a variety of community-oriented activities. Such is the case with the future Marieville library and community centre.
The building site faces a century-old park located right in the heart of this community of 10,000. A heritage church stands nearby as well as school buildings and an archeological site. A lot of attention was paid to the context while searching for a resolutely contemporary design.
The proposed building consists in two three-level volumes within an elongated form determined by its narrow site. From the central lobby, open to all three floors, one can understand the entire building and its links with the church, the park, and the town itself. A highly visible sculptural staircase acts as a reminder of the region’s grain silos.
The multi-level lobby gives direct access to community activities taking place on the north side of the building. The library per se is on the opposite side. Immediately accessible from the lobby is the reception desk and the children’s corner; periodicals and a small café are on the second floor. The building’s top floor is entirely occupied by library functions, adult and teen sections, reading areas, medialab, and administration.
Natural light and transparency permeate this project, which Marieville has long been waiting for.
