SUSTAINaLIBRARY
The project aims to provide a contemporary library/community hub in the heart of Todmorden. As the town already features a local library, the new design will comprise of a mediatheque library and adjacent spaces dedicated to the study of sustainable, traditional practices such as seasonal planting, cooking, and recycling crafts. Inspired by the influence The Incredible Edible Network had on the town, and the community, the building intends to effectively integrate these values and accommodate their growth.
The essence of the spaces is reflected by the structural volumes that accommodate them. The ample rotunda hosting the library communicates with the town hall, inviting visitors into the green atrium and passageway towards the market side. As a threshold area, it connects the built heritage of Todmorden and its rich natural landscape. The interiors announce this design aim through the dual views, external towards the town hall and internal towards the green atrium. The rest of the structure follows a simple rectilinear pattern, that allows fluid access into the study spaces.
Aiming to offer a sense of belonging, through a contextual facade, diverse brick-layerings were used as an homage to Todmorden's weaving industry. Moreover, the repetitive rhythm of the viaduct arches was mimicked on the lateral elevations, through alternating angled solid and glazed sashes, that guide the light into the interiors. Following the proportions of the Town Hall, the vertical grid generated by its columns prompted the vertical pattern of the East facade, where the hit-and-miss brickwork acts as an environmental modifier, aiding with overheating while framing the external views and creating an atmospheric internal light and shadow play.
I would conclude by saying that the proposal seeks to revitalise Bramsche Square by inviting the market's visitors to delve deeper into holistic traditional knowledge.
