Digital/Traditional: A Public Library Uniting Tradition and Technology in Chennai, India

SCHOOL OF DESIGN & THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

MASTER OF ARCHITECTURE CURTIN UNIVERSITY

DIGITAL/TRADITIONAL A Public Library uniting tradition and technology in Chennai, India

STU NO. 176.465.69 ALEXANDER LOCKHART

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DIGITAL TRADITION

A Public Library uniting tradition and technology in Chennai, India Alexander Graham Lockhart Unit Coordinator: Reena Tiwari Thesis Supervisor: Justin Owen

Student Number: 17646569

70% Design 30% Written

Declaration This thesis contains no material which has been accepted for the award of any other degree or diploma in any university. To the best of my knowledge and belief this thesis contains no material previously published by any other person except where due acknowledgment has been made.

Some portions of the written text has been used and pulled from thesis proposal.

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Acknowledgments Thank you to both Beth and Justin for their guidance, encouragement and inspiration.

Thank you to my family for their unconditional love,understanding and support.

Thank you to my friends for the laughs and good times along the way.

And thank you to Professor Balsaver and Dr Sambit for gifting me with the original inspiration for this thesis in a life changing trip to India.

Pictured right to left: Professor Duragand Balsaver, Aneela Balsaver (his lovely wife) and myself (a skinny architecture kid)

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CONTENTS Abstract

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Libraries Past

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Libraries Present

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Research Question

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Objectives

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Significance

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Methodology

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Site

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Cultural Analysis

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Site Selection

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Design Development 49

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Design

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Conclusion

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References

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Appendix

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ABSTRACT Since its original inception in the 1700’s the development of the modern public library can be understood as a response to successive innovations in both technology and culture. With the absorption of emerging technologies introduced throughout time realizing the libraries greater role as a cultural signifier toward society (romero, 2004). In light of recent digital innovations, this cultural role has become the predominant influence driving the development of libraries today; with the opportunities afforded by latent technologies granting the potential of the typology to assist toward the urban regeneration of cities. (Skot-hansen, dorte, casper hvenegaard rasmussen, and jochumsen, 2013)

This thesis investigates an alternative approach toward the design of future public libraries that explores the potential integration of culture and technology through architectural design. Selecting the historic district of Georgetown of Chennai, India as a site, the outcome of this investigation was the proposal of a public library toward the district that attempted to maintain its unique traditional identity in light of its coming technological redevelopment

In observation of contemporary libraries exploring this potential however, the particular culture evangelized in such pursuits has become a recurring topic of debate. Discourse from architects and cultural analysts alike noting a predominant focus upon modern digital cultures and ignorance to those of their local and traditional contexts. (Skothansen, dorte, casper hvenegaard rasmussen, and jochumsen, 2013) this therefore poses a unique challenge toward the developing city of today, as aspirations to introduce society to the benefits of technology within libraries may potentially come at the cost of their invaluable cultural traditions.

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2019: The Lochal

2017: Tianjin Binhai Library 2007: E-Books

2000: The Fourth Industrial Revolution

Amazon.com launches its Kindle electronic book (e-book) reader.

2007: Iphone

2004: Seattle Public Library

Apple introduces a touchscreen cellphone called the iPhone.

2001: Wikipedia The Wikipedia online encyclopedia is founded by Larry Sanger and Jimmy Wales.

1993: The Nimes Mediatheque

1989: World Wide Web Tim Berners-Lee invents the World Wide Web

1870: The Second Industrial Revolution

1976: Apple Computer 1973: Mobile Phone

Melvin Dewey publishes a 4 page pamphlet detailing the Dewey Decimal system.

Steve Wozniak and Steve Jobs launch the Apple I: one of the world’s first personal home computers

Martin Cooper develops the first handheld cellphone.

AT THEIR CAPITAL, THESE POLES SPLIT AND BOWED TO FORM THE ARCHED SUPPORTS OF THE DOUBLE BARRELED CEILING SPANNING THE LENGTH OF THE LIBRARY.

1967: Online Library

1960: M.A.R.C

(Online Computer Library Center) founded

Creation of the (MARC) Machine Readable Catalouging.

1935: The Viipuri Library 1800’s: The Age of Enlightenment

1960’s: Post Modernism

The exact date disputed, the Age of Enlightenment is generally agreed to encompass the 18th century

1843: The Rotating Printing Press

1765: The First Industrial Revolution

Designed by William Nicholson, the rotating Printing Press greatly imporved the economy, efficiency and alacrity of printing.

Increasing the media’s accessibility substantially.

Prompted by the revolution of manufacturing processes within America and Europe.

Boullee’s conceptual design of the Utopian Library. Inspired by Rafael’s school of Athens, the architectural design intended to imbue metaphoric meaning toward the accumulation of knowledge.

Notable features include the ‘tunnel of books’. The design has served as palimsest fir the discussion of the modern library.

1523: Bibliotheca Laurenziana

1436: The Printing Press

The publication of “Don Quixote” by the Spanish writer Cervantes.

1920: Young Readers

Dedicatied student services in alignment with schools curriculumn

1920: Reception Desk

An information desk is installed at the Rhode Island Public Library

Located in Florence and designed by Michelangelo. Intended to increase the cities prestige, uniting fine architectural qualities and symbolic expressions. Its design being of 3 differentiated spaces including a large readinging room if mininimal structural elements.

Johannes Gutenbergs invention of the printing press cites as a decisive moment toward the formation of the Public Library. It’s first production of ‘The Gutenberg Bible’ paved the way toward the development of the modern book.

1900’s: Modernism

1842: Classification

The exact date disputed, the Age of Enlightenment is generally agreed to encompass the 18th century

1900: Childrens Collection

Dedicated spaces for Children are introduce. Prior to this children were restricted from the library.

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Beginning with these early iterations of public libraries, Santi Romero, member of the IFLA (International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions) defines the continuing development of typology as a response to successive innovations in both technology and culture; describing how the architecture of libraries responded to new technologies to reflect a cohesive cultural

image in built form. (Romero, 2004) To understand the current form of libraries this thesis begins with a necessary study of the typologies past. Exploring the evolution of the library through time in response to the recorded four technologic revolutions of modern history. Focusing upon an seminal library within each period that had embraced the innovations of technology of its time, this analysis interrogates how the confluence of technology and design saw to the representation of a unique cultural identity within libraries.

IMAGE: The timeline illustrates notable developments of culture and technology which have influenced the design of libraries. As observed, developments occur in clusters following the identified dates of industrial revolutions, further supporting the deterministic relationship shared between technology and culture.

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AT THE COLUMNS CAPITAL THE IRON BEAMS OF THE FLOORS SUBSTRUCTURE ARE LEFT EXPOSED. THIS PROVIDING USERS WITH A PERCEPTION OF THE LIBRARIES CONSTRUCTION AND SYMBOLICALLY SUGGESTS THE EXISTENCE OF SOMETHING GREATER UPON THE STRUCTURES UPPER FLOOR

SIMPLE NEO-CLASSICAL COLUMNS

Historically, libraries where but closed repositories for the accumulation and preservation of knowledge; reserved for those of notoriety and privilege and denied of public access. It was not until the Renaissance of the 1700’s where our understanding of the ‘modern public library’ first emerged - that with the invention of the rotary printing press and the simultaneous development of enlightenment thinking, stimulated a fundamental change in societies attitude to knowledge. (Romero, 2004). This initiated a re-emergence of culture which had been hidden for so many centuries. (Romero, 2004) The newfound relationship between technology and culture divining a greater cultural purpose to the typology of the library.

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WITHIN THE READING ROOM, THE PROPORTIONS FOUND WITHIN THE COLUMNS OF LOBBY ARE INVERTED, THE LIMESTON COLUMN ACTING AS A SMALL STONE PEDASTLES SUPPORTING SLENDER IRON POLES EXPANDING TO THE LIBRARIES CEILING

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1900

1800

1700

1600

1500

1400

1300

The Paris Bookseller’s classification, developed in 1842 by Jacques Charles Brunet is widely agreed to be the forst system of modern library classification

Libraries Past

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Carson invents the photocopier

1784: Boullee ‘School of Athens’

1605: The First Novel

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1937: Photocopier

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THE SUNKEN ENTRANCE LOBBY POSITIONED CENTRALLY WITH ARCHIVED COLLECTIONS FLANKING ITS SIDES

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THE REAR STAIRWELL ARTICULATED AS A SEPARATE VOLUME AS NOT TO INTERFERE WITH THE UNIFORMITY OF ITS ADJOINING SPACES. A LARGE FRESCO OF RAPHAELS ‘SCHOOL OF ATHENS’ IS POSITIONED OF ITS REAR WALL WITH WINDOWS ON ITS EAST AND WEST WALLS FLOODING THE SPACE WITH LIGHT. THE ETHEREAL READING ROOM FEATURING ORNATE IRON COLUMNS THAT BISECT TO FORM THE SPACES DOUBLE BARRELED ROOF. THE READING ROOM EXTENDS THE ENTIRE LENGTH OF THE STRUCTURE, ENCASED BY STACKS OF BOOKS CAPPED BY LARGE ARCHED WINDOWS

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INSCRIBED ON ITS FACADE THE NAMES OF 810 FAMOUS AUTHORS ARRANGED ALPHABETICALLY. THESE ARE PRECISELY POSITIONED ON THE REVERSED LOCATION OF THEIR WORKS FOUND WITHIN INTERIOR BOOKSHELVES, CREATING A SUBTLE MIRROR EFFECT BETWEEN THE LIBRARIES CONTENTS AND THE FACADE. THE BUILDING ITSELF BEING COMPOSED AS A METAPHORIC BOOK. Sketch Study of Genevieve Library (Authors Own)

The St. Genevieve Library Architect Constructed Size (Floor Area) Location Collection Period

Henri Lebrouste 1850 2500m2 Paris France 2,000,000 items The First Industrial Revolution

The St. Genevieve Library of Henri Lebrouste cites as a notable early example; capitalizing on the innovations of the industrial revolution to reflect the emerging rationalist culture of newly independent France. (MarijuanRodriguez, n.d.) This was performed chiefly through the innovation of structural iron, that provisioned the libraries double vaulted reading room and challenging the annexed libraries common in that age (mEma Smemory, 2012).

In a practical sense, the irons material advantages to contemporary stone greatly reduced the extensiveness of structure required for stability; enabling the construction of the diaphanous first floor reading space which shared close similarities to the religious architecture of the period.

This fact, elevated the act of browsing and

reading within the library to an ethereal level; that in combination with its peripheral arched windows that flooded the space with light, greatly improved the spacial atmosphere and quality of reading within the library.

More subvertly however, the expressive nature of the iron elements in juxtaposition to those of stone assigned a greater cultural purpose to their use. With the vertical ascension from stone to iron that bisected to form the arched supports of the libraries roof, functioning as a metaphor for the evolving identity of the city. (Refer to above image) Additionally, the intricate floral tracery evident within these columns symbolized an emerging pride toward the library within French culture. An intricacy and detail that continued high into the library’s atrium out of view to the public, evidence of the great value toward the building.

Through the technology of iron, Lebrouste was able to assign a greater cultural purpose to the library of St. Genevieve. The technology functioning on both practical and performative levels to reflect a greater cultural shift within the city.

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A PERSPECTIVE AXONOMETRIC, ILLUSTRATING THE MOUNTAIEOUS INTERIOR LANDSCAPE OF THE LIBRARY VIIPURI. STACKS ARE SEEN TO EXIST UPON THE TRANSITIONAL SPACES BETWEEN RAMPS AND STAIRWELLS OF THE LIBRARY, UNITING SERVICE AND NAVIGATION INTO A SINGLE EXPERIENCE

A SECTIONAL ISOMETRIC DIAGRAM OF THE INNOVATIVE SKYWELLS OF THE LIBRARY ILLUSTRATING THE REFRACTION OF LIGHT AROUND INTS CURVED INTERIOR SURFACE

THE ALLOCATION OF FACILITIES IS DETERMINED BY EACH SPACES REQUIREMENT FOR NATURAL LIGHTING, VENTILATION AND FUNCTIONAL ADJACENCY. THE CAFE AND GALLERIES EXPLOITING AN ABUNDANCE OF LIGHT ON UPPER FLOORS WITH A CINEMA AND LIBRARY COLLECTIONS SAFELY PROTECTED WITHIN SUNKEN LOWER FLOORS.

Sketch Study of Viipuri Library (Authors Own)

THE GLASS ROOF ATRIUM AT THE HEART OF THE PLAN, WITH A CASCADING STAIR IN REFERENCE TO THE COURTYARD VERNACULAR OF THE REGION. HISTORICALLY USED WITHIN HOUSING, WITHIN THIS CONTEXT, A CENTRAL COURTYARD PROVIDES VISUAL CONNECTION BETWEEN SPACES ENCOURAGING COLLABORATION Sketch Study of Nimes Mediatheque (Authors Own)

The Viipuri Library Architect Constructed Size (Floor Area) Location Period

Alvar Aalto 1935 2500m2 Vyborg (Formerly Viipuri, Russia The Technological Revolution

The development of modernism of the early 20th century which valued the development and progression of knowledge (Bernman, 1988), parallel to the innovations of the second industrial revolution that introduced the capacity of mass manufacturing; saw a dramatic increase in the availability and desire for printed media (Romero, 2004).

In response the public library began a necessary transformation and begun to explore newfound technologies and design solutions to accommodate for increasing demand. (Romero, 2004).

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The Viipuri Library of Alvar Aalto cites as a notable example of this typological shift, that built in the context of the thriving commercial city of Viipuri utilized technology to reflect its

new modernist values.

This being most notably evident within the building’s inventive distribution of internal spaces, that hidden beneath its simple geometric massing utilized new structural concretes to include 6 overlapping levels.

Inspired by the mountainous topography of its context this layout visually and programmatically references the local landscape; that in a modified display of modernist axioms assigned the libraries services to its transitional spaces. (Langdon, 2015). This resulted in a seamless journey that meanders through the entire building the contrasted the flat hallways typified by functionalist libraries of the period.

This experiential approach to design utilizing new technologies continues in Aalto’s preoccupation with light, which inspired the innovative lighting system where no direct sunlight enters its central reading room (Langdon, 2015). This was achieved through 2-metre-tall conical light shafts mounted within the ceiling that scattered diffuse light evenly throughout the space. Resulting in an

The Nimes Mediatheque equal distribution of shadow less light that enabled readers to move freely without the interruption of shadow.

It is such innovations that establish the Viipuri library as a profound representative example of the modern cultural movement. Utilizing the expanding innovations of technology and architecture to reinvent the library typology.

Architect Constructed Size (Floor Area) Location Collection Period

Foster + Partners 1993 20,400m2 Paris France 29,000 items (20th/21st century art The Digital Revolution

Sited within the historic town center opposite the ancient Maison Carree, with a complex brief that demanded a highly sophisticated multimedia center and municipal library, Fosters + Partners Nimes Mediatheque is an attempt to conflate the rich culture of the cities past with the emerging world of information technology.

Inspired by the traditional typology of the Mediatheque, the facilities large program is distributed across a nine-floor structure which foster intentionally submerged in sympathy of its surrounding historic context (fosters website). At its heart, a glass walled courtyard with cascading stair unites its various floors and entices users to explore the libraries various services. In doing so, the library reinterprets the historic spatial

typology of the Mediatheque through the use of modern materials and technologies; Utilizing its qualities to the benefit of modern services and technologies granting a timeless quality to the space (Foster + Partners) Expanding upon this, its external facade of modern glass and steel establishes a unique dialogue between its internal functions and peripheral context; exploiting the modern materials lightness and transparency to display its internal technologies to the historic public square (the architectural review).

Additional to this the structural cadence of these modern materials mirrors that of the Maison Carree, establishing a unique juxtaposition between the two as structures, as two buildings dedicated to the celebration of French culture separated by time.

Here foster poetically articulates the technology of the time through the historic language of its context and establishes a dialogue between past and present. The affordances of these new technologies and its connection to local historic context granting a greater social role to the building.

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Discussion

LVL 12 LIBRARY ROOF TERRACE LVL 11 OFFICE | CREATIVE DIRECTOR OFFICES | CITY LIBRARIAN OFFICES LVL 10 THE READING ROOM LVL 6-9 BOOKS | PERIODICALS | ENCYCLOPEDIA | MULTILINGUAL | NON FICTION LVL 5 TECHNOLOGY | ELECTRONICS | REMOTE LEARNING | TECH LEARNING LVL 4 THE ASSEMBLY LVL 3 NEWSPAPERS & MAGAZINES | MULTIMEDIA | STAFF SERVICES | FICTION LVL 1-2 CHILDRENS LIBRARY & COLLECTIONS | AUDITORIUM

From the symbolism of iron, to metaphor of the landscape, to a juxtaposition with history to the re-conception of information, the technical evolution of the modern public library is mirrored by the evolution of its cultural meaning. As explored through the lens of civilizations technologic revolutions, the transition of each era brought new development in both technology and culture, to which the library responded adopting new services, functions and means of cultural representation.

Although still focused upon its fundamental service, “to build and curate collections… to disclose knowledge to users to enable learning in its many forms” (Watson, 2013, P194) the broader reflection of these libraries reveals the emergence of a greater cultural function within the typology. That through the affordances of new emerging technologies that the library can function as a vessel of cultural celebration and growth, of a greater city influence.

Now with the passage of the next technologic era - dubbed ‘the information age’ – this observation is becoming the predominant force driving the development of libraries today; with the introduction of electronic media over physical collections granting new freedom to the public libraries spatial form and program. (Edwards and Fisher, 2002).

THE PROPOSED ONLINE INTERFACE OF THE LIBRARY, MIMICKING THE DISTRIBUTION OF SPACES WITHIN THE PHYSICAL LIBRARY, ESTABLISHING A CONNECTION BETWEEN ITS PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL NAVIGATION, WHERE ONE CAN PRESCRIBE A UNDERSTANDING OF THE OTHER

Sketch Study of The Seattle Public Library (Authors Own)

The Seattle Public Library Architect Constructed Size (Floor Area) Location Period

OMA 2004 33,700m2 Seattle, Washington The Information Age

As a critical first response to the introduction of the ‘information age’, the Seattle Public Library by OMA takes a considerable departure from library tradition. With the ambition to “refine / reinvent the Library as an institution no longer exclusively dedicated to the book” (OMA/LMN, 1999), the library materializes as a kind of information store, where all forms of media - both new and old - are presented in simultaneity.

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Taking the role of curator, the library divides itself into individual spatial compartments dedicated to specific forms of technology and media. Functioning independently, each compartments size, flexibility, circulation, and structure can vary in isolation without hindrance to the operation of others.

Integrating the structural technology of the American high-rise – enabling the

superimposition of floors dedicated to isolated functions within a single built volume (OMA/LMN, 1999) - these ‘technology clusters’ are sequenced throughout the library by virtue of the daylight, external views and required functional adjacencies. In doing so, introducing a new kind of flexibility to the libraries design, where each of its functions can flourish independently and grow in an environment most conducive to its service.

The resulting exterior form of this technique additionally creates a building of truly iconic form; where its external appearance is directly reflective of its internal functional operation. This extends the libraries influence toward to the surrounding urban context.

Entrenching itself within the site and creating a seamless transition when accessing the library from the street.

The extension of this identity permeates to the digital realm, where the physical distribution of spaces within the library is reflected within its online interface. (OMA/ LMN, 1999) As OMA describes, providing the “unique opportunity to declare the pleasures

and benefits of the new library, as well as its structure and strengths. The virtual functions also as a training ground - introducing the platform model, the hierarchy, features and formats of the new library, facilitating navigation (and reducing demand on staff) for visitor orientation in the real building.” (OMA/ LMN, 1999) Through innovative structural systems and informational technologies, the Seattle Library becomes a civic space for the circulation of knowledge in all forms of media; where the incredible proliferation of different forms of media are simultaneously legible within a single built form. By extending its identity to the wider urban and digital realm, the library endows Seattle with an image as a future oriented city with a strong digital culture.

(Skot-Hansen, 2013).

Skot-Hansen, a Professor of Information Studies at the University of Copenhagen, has analyzed the greater opportunities afforded by latent technologies to future libraries; granting the potential of the typology to assist toward the urban regeneration of cities. (Skot-Hansen, Dorte, Casper Hvenegaard Rasmussen, and Jochumsen, 2013) He notes that as cities attempt to “brand themselves, to attract visitors and to strengthen milieus generating ideas and innovation” that the emerging role of the library as a cultural signifier offers the opportunity to do so in manner celebrating the traditional culture of cities (Skot-Hansen, Dorte, Casper Hvenegaard Rasmussen, and Jochumsen, 2013).

Observed to currently explore three unique pursuits recognizing the potential of a library to act as a “Cultural Icon and Landmark” contribute to, “Placemaking and Urban Identity”, and to encourage “Community revitalization”. (DCMS, 2004, p. 3) each pursuit utilizes the virtues of emerging technologies through different means to produce libraries of strikingly unique service and design. As detailed in the studies following however, such pursuits all seem to exhibit fundamental flaws, as the question of ‘what culture?’ Such libraries celebrate is a continual topic of debate. (Skot-Hansen, Dorte, Casper Hvenegaard Rasmussen, and Jochumsen, 2013).

Library Axonometrics (Authors Own)

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Libraries Present Library as Icon The Tianjin Library

Embracing such characteristics as “being different and unique, famous (or intended to be) and of a symbolic aesthetic nature,” (Sklair, 2006, p.28) The Tianjin Library is an explicit example of the Library as icon; featuring a central spherical auditorium with terraced bookshelves that echo its form to form an interior topographical landscape (MVRDV). Part education center part social space, the library rests at the junction of the cities CBD, old town, residential districts, commercial areas and government quarter, supplementing the missing programs within each.

Tianjin Library Circulation Diagram

With a limited number of accessible books, this central space functions primarily as a circulation point from which the service spaces of the library are accessed through adjoining doors as shown.

(Authors Own)

Despite its relative success’ - since its opening on 1 October 2017 being highly publicized in Chinese media (Tianjin Binhai Library / MVRDV, 2019) - being conceptually likened to an eye (Tianjin Binhai Library, 2017) the libraries design draws little inspiration from its surrounding districts; that additional to the discovery of painted books within the library’s main atrium (Tan, 2017) labels the innovative structural design as functionally superficial. With the rest of the library’s services operating in a traditional manner with reading and meeting rooms, office and computer and audio rooms within the atriums adjoining spaces, in such a case one can ask, “Iconic for who?”, and question the specific culture the library celebrates.

Library as Placemaker The Lochal Library

The concept of Placemaking refers to a collaborative process of shaping public realms to maximize their shared value to the community, commonly used in the formation of cultural districts which are seen as lively and attractive areas to live, work and visit (Kloostermann, 2009).

Described as a “new urban living room” (Lochal Library, n.d.) the LocaHal library by Mecanoo is one such example, readapting an iconic locomotive shed located in the heart of Tilburgs new city campus. Housing the Midden-Brabant Library, the cultural institutions Kunstloc and Brabant C and the co-working spaces of Seats2meet. “The LocHal is a space for both young and old to read, learn, study, meet and gather. It is a place for testing, creating, exhibiting and presenting the latest innovations.” (Lochal Library, n.d.)

Despite Mecanoo’s playful interior design contrasting the historic remnants of the former structure, speculation can still be raised regarding the regional sensitivity of its service; with the internal technologies offered within such rooms as the Digilab, GameLab, FutureLab, FoodLab, KennisMakerij (LearningLab), TijdLab (TimeLab), Stemmingmakerij (DialogueLab) and WoordLab (WordLab) , dictated predominantly by current global and digital forces. This observed as a common trend within ‘placemaking libraries’ by Skot-Hansen, described as “a ‘popup’ culture” that shares little resonance to local history and place (Skot-Hansen, Dorte, Casper Hvenegaard Rasmussen, and Jochumsen, 2013)

Lochal Facilities Diagram

Showing the access pathways of different services throughout the library, with the multivalent labs positioned on the raised level at the structures rear end.

(Authors Own)

Library in Community Revitalization The ‘Idea Stores’

‘Community Re-vitalization’ is used to define an optimistic attempt toward innovation and creativity (DCMS, 2004) producing libraries that utilize new technologies in an attempt to “boost local identity and cohesion, address social and economic challenges and initiate local innovation, creativity and cooperation” (DCMS, 2004). The ‘idea stores’ of London have thrived within this approach attempting rethink and re-brand the library so it could play a more active role in addressing the huge social and economic challenges common in London boroughs (Skot-Hansen, Dorte, Casper Hvenegaard Rasmussen, and Jochumsen, 2013).

On top of traditional library services these libraries offer a wide range of adult education classes along with other career support, learning laboratories, meeting areas, cafe´s and arts and leisure pursuits dictated by the desires and needs of their local communities; all choreographed within easily accessible spaces modeled upon commercial retail environments. (Skot-Hansen, Dorte, Casper Hvenegaard Rasmussen, and Jochumsen, 2013).

With its direct focus upon its local communities, these libraries most sensitively celebrate the regional culture of their contexts. But with programs and retail spacial designs speculation can be raised regarding the identity of these structures as libraries altogether, with a more appropriate title being stated as a “unique type of educational community center that offers library services along with adult learning courses” (Aitani, 2017)

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WhiteChapel IdeaStore circulation Diagram

Showing the multiple rooms and navigation pathways throughout the library, the Idea Store shares little resemblance to a traditional library building (Authors Own)

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Despite each pursuit’s individual benefits, the perception of culture experienced within each is a recurring topic of debate. As irrespective of each library’s method of culture-led regeneration, critical discourse from architects and cultural analysts alike noting each libraries failure in effectively appreciating its contexts culture (Skot-Hansen, Dorte, Casper Hvenegaard Rasmussen, and Jochumsen, 2013) Cultural icons and landmarks projecting a striking physical presence that inspires pride but being superficial and predominantly aesthetic upon critical analysis, Libraries exploring placemaking effectively reestablishing suffering or emerging districts however advocating modern ‘pop cultures’ over existing cultural identities, and libraries promoting community revitalization facilitating the greatest respect and sensitivity to regional cultures but holistically ineffective without the authority provided by the clear identity of a library.

This poses a unique challenge toward the developing city of today, as aspirations to introduce society to the benefits of technology may potentially come at the cost of its cultural traditions. India and its cities being a particularly pertinent example, with the 2015 induction of the nation’s Smart Cities Mission (SCM) envisioning the development of 100 smart cities to address the countries rapid urbanisation (Langar, 2017) . This issue having already been cited by the acclaimed architects Balrishna Doshi and Rajeev Kathpalia, warning that governments wild chase for efficiency through the adoption of ‘smart technologies’ will destroy the rural informality and diversity that have become the cornerstone of the countries cities. (Campbellm 2015).

Without a means of introducing traditional cultural to emerging technologies; or an architecture that harmonizes these two forces in built form; will the absorption of such global, placeless, a-historical technologies by society come at the consequence of culture and tradition permanently?

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Launched in 2015, The Indian Government’s Smart City Mission, envisions the development of one hundred “smart cities” by 2020 to address the country’s rapid urbanization and its associated issues. The $7.5-billion mission entails the comprehensive development of core infrastructure — water and electricity supply, urban mobility, affordable housing, sanitation, health, and safety — while infusing technology-based “smart solutions” to drive economic growth and improve the citizens’ quality of life in cities. These 100 cities are intended to become replicable models that will have a ‘rub off-effect’ to other cities, catalysing the development of the nation.

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Research Question?

How can tradition and technology be intertwined within the design of public libraries to provide legibility and relevance to historic cultures in the evolving information driven cities?

Objectives 1

To explore how traditional cultures can be represented within the modern public library through the integration of new technologies and architecture.

2

Demonstrate the benefits of using culture and tradition to generate new programs and experiences within library architecture.

3

To imbue a quality of culture to the navigation of digital information.

Significance This dissertation opposes recent conjecture regarding the validity of tradition and culture in today’s technology driven society. It responds to this by exploring the design of a library that functions as a means of culture led urban revitalization. The result is aimed to provide an alternative form to which libraries can take in the future; one which better appreciates the cultural diversity and character that exists amongst the people and of its domain: and further in design, takes these elements and introduces them to emerging digital spaces.

“The Rosetta Pad�

(Authors Own)

An early concept image encapsulating the three underlying aspirations driving design.

1. That the integration of cultural features and emerging technologies must provide greater context and understanding toward information, that relates to the local cultures unique to site.

2. That the resulting design must provide greater legibility to the current immensity of digitally available information. Creating a culturally unique means of searching and navigating information.

3.That the design must be accessible to all people, irrespective of technologic literacy, colour, creed or caste.

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Methodology The methodology employed by this thesis utilizes a combination of design and research methods. Through qualitative measures which focus on an “interpretive, naturalistic approach to subject matter” (Grout and Wang 2013, 218) identification of culturally significant physical elements, social behaviors, and traditions of library architecture is performed. These in turn being used to establish a contextual framework through which iterative design can test how cultural elements may be reinterpreted through the technology of the library.

analysis of literature and case study. Their individual processes are ‘thoughtfully analyzed and considered collectively’ generating a taxonomy meaningful themes through which Indian culture will be analyzed for design (Grout and Wang 2013, P232).

Studies of Bijoy Jain’s and Charles Correa’s methodologies are recorded within this thesis’ appendix, and the taxonomy of meaningful themes generated detailed below.

In appreciation of the incredible depth and complexity of India’s cultural identity - and likely subjective bias arising from personal opinion - an existential phenomenological approach is specifically applied toward the interpretation Indian cultural elements.

Focusing on “the specific experiences of specific individuals or groups in actual situations or places.” (Grout and Wang 2013, P232), an initial study of design methodologies employed by acclaimed Indian architects is performed through

To understand the complex relationship shared between culture and technology within the design of public libraries, the analysis of case studies is used to generate general themes governing the process of design. Focusing on the architectural evolution of the library in response to cultural and technologic advancements, a clear understanding as to how these are represented in built form is discerned. These case studies began to establish a foundation for library design which is applied to the

Methods

Studio Mumbai design project. (Refer to Libraries Past & Libraries Present Chapters) Furthermore, an investigation of current library models and recommendations is conducted that outline the essential considerations of modern public library design. Utilizing global frameworks released by the IFLA as well as National frameworks released by the Indian Bureau of Standards, a composite ‘Project Schedule’ is created. (Refer to Page 24-25) Through an understanding of these model’s potential opportunities and alternative proposals in library design are identified. These frameworks generated an inspirational programmatic brief and schedule of accommodation used in design.

As the relationship between technology, design and library architecture is established through research, contextual analysis of Chennai was performed to understand the various opportunities, concerns and influences of the city.

“We have a set of ideas on what architecture should be, but this does in no way diminish the value of understanding why things are made one way rather than another” This observation of Bijoy Jain reveals his principle sensibility constituting his approach to architectural design.

The principal Architect of Studio Mumbai, Bijoy Jains architecture revolves around the concept of lore - as a body of knowledge which is passed down from generation to generation (Savage, 2017). In design this translates to methodology which derives inspiration from the cultural and natural contexts of his projects.

His Tara House communicates this explicitly.

Working with a master builder the home was located atop a sweet water well just meters from the sea, It was only through his innate knowledge of the land, sensing the well without the use of tools that this well was located. This natural phenomena became the foundation upon which the project s design was conceived, Jain metaphorically interpreting the well as a form of natural clock that would fluctuate its level in confluence with the oceans tide in its sunken room beneath the house. (Veillon, 2011) This change is sensed throughout the home in sight, smell and touch, developing an active dialogue between the built form and sea that it perceived by all the senses.

Discussion Not just its outcome but the process by which architecture manifests is a crucible technique employed by Jain in the process of design.

Sourced from the environmental and social contexts of site, realised must engage with the intrinsic qualities of site. It must communicate upon multiple levels, stimulating the sense, creating event and gifting a greater knowledge to those who experience it.

TOP LEFT: The stair descending to the base of the home’s sweet- well. Photographed at low tide, staining on the wall displays the diurnal variance of the wells water level. A beam of light illuminates the water through a skylight within the ceiling, disrupting its stillness and establishing a quality of time to the space TOP RIGHT: The wall base connecting the vertical elements of the home to the earth symbolically references the relationship with water mimicking the capillarity effect to water gripping to the borders of its container.

BOTTOM RIGHT: Digging of the well at the beginning of construction. The process contracting local labour using traditional equipment (all Images) Helene Binet. (2010). “Tara House / Studio Mumbai”.

Reproduced from Archdaily. https://www.archdaily. com/62621/tara-house-studio-mumbai

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23

Foundational Themes

Charles Correa The etymology of Correas work covers a vast range of concepts categorised by such notions as ‘open to the sky building’ and ‘form follows climate’. Irrespective of his particular interest of the time, his architecture maintains a quality of theatricality being highly conceptually driven and seeking to juxtapose seemingly contradictory states of architecture – the traditional methodologies of India’s past, and the contemporary desires of modern design.

PORCH

VERANDAH

The Kachanjunga… apartments provided the opportunity to directly response to the present culture, the escalating urbanization, and the climatic conditions for the region, whilst paying homage to the vernacular architecture that stood on the site before.

Its location presented a contradictory situation, its east west axis catching the sea breeze and affording views of the Arabian sea, but also bringing in the hot afternoon sun and harsh monsoon rains. His solution was derived from the rural solution of the bungalow, of wrapping the internal living spaces with a protective veranda and building upon its principle by turning the veranda into a garden; acting as a buffer that protects interior spaces while thriving in its exposure to the climate. This materialized as an ingenious interlocking 32 apartments varying from 3 to 6 bedrooms. Double height verandas on the sites southern facade enabling the growth of bountiful gardens with terraced living spaces protected on its opposite side.

Both Jain’s and Correas respective approaches where shown to reconstitute India’s vernacular architectural traditions to accommodate the various needs of architecture today; Jains emerging from an analysis of craft and process and Correa from an analysis of concept. Despite their differences, certain similarities are observed within the manner their designs communicate culture that have been interpreted into the form of three ‘themes of approach’.

BATH

BED

LIVING

BED

BED

DINING

BED

VERANDAH

BATH

These theme’s will be used throughout the process of design for this thesis, to ensure that design decisions interpret culture in a sensitive and genuine manner.

1. Sensorial perception Referring to physiological comforts arising out of the physical conditions created through environmental control.

This perception is humanly universal and foundational within each architects’ designs.

2. Experiential Perception Referring to physiological comforts arising out of the physical conditions created through environmental control.

This perception is humanly universal and foundational within each architects’ designs.

3. Associational perception Which is culturally specific and requires a preconditioning, familiarity or knowledge of the derived concepts source explored within design. This establishes a connection and dialogue with the past, succeeding through an understanding of cultural symbolism and metaphor.

Discussion

Correas architecture does not imitate the past but draws knowledge from its principles which he reconstitutes to the typologies of today. It most importantly communicates his envisaged concepts holistically, integrating nature within the built form, establishing moments in navigation that grant a visceral understanding of the designs effect and purpose, and respecting the past through symbolism and metaphor toward the that aligns with the concepts traditional meaning.

TOP LEFT: Plan diagram of the Indian Bungalow. A perimeter verandah envelops the entire building, mitigating the penetration of sunlight and rain to internal living spaces.

(Authors Own) LEFT MIDDLE: Overlooking the ocean from an apartment’s double height balcony BOTTOM LEFT: A sectional perspective concept diagram

by Correa illustrating the relationship between apartments of different floors. An alternating diagonal pattern is used to divide spaces on a vertical axis granting each apartment both single and double height spaces.

RIGHT: Photograph of the structures minimalist facade pattered with alternating large openings on either side where apartment balconies are positioned. (all images) Brian Pagnota. (2011). “Kachanjunga Apartments / Charles Correa”. Reproduced from Archdaily.

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25

Project Schedule

Generated through a combined review of IFLA (International Federation of Libraries Association) Public Library Standards, the Bureau of Indian Standards Article 1553- 1960 (Design of Library Buildings) and the Recommendations of IFLA member Santi Romero within “Library Architecture: Recommendations for a Comprehensive Research Project” this project schedule details the relevant design considerations of at each project stage of library design.

This was used as a referential document throughout the process of analysis and design

ACCESS

staff

WORKING ENVIRONMENT REQUIRED NUMBER

FUNCTION/SERVICE REQUIREMENTS MAINTENANCE

TOWN PLANNING PROJECTIONS

municipality

EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES CULTURAL FACILITIES LIBRARY FACILITIES

ERGONOMICS

architecT

CONCEPTUAL CLARITY/LEDGIBILITY DESIGN QUALITY/EFFICIENCY CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE AND

ADAPTABILITY/EXPANSION

TECHNOLOGY

SEPERATE FROM PUBLIC

STAFF ACCESS

ACCESS

ACCESS TO INFORMATION POINTS/WAYFINDING

MAINTENANCE TOWN PLANNING PROJECTIONS

municipality ACCESS FORCULTURAL PEOPLEFACILITIES and BOOKS

LIBRARY FACILITIES

INTERNAL ENTRANCES/EXITS

LEDGIBLE AGAINST URBAN COMPOSITION

FUNCTION/SERVICE REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES

USER BELONGINGS

THEFT

SAFETY AND SECURITY INTERNAL NAVIGATION SIZE OF ENTRIES

FURNITURE STRatEGIES

STRatEGIES SPACIAL ZONING (RESTRICTED ACCESS)

SPACIALSPACIAL ZONINGCOMPOSITION (RESTRICTED ACCESS) RESTRICTED ACCESS ENABLES

RESTRICTED ACCESS ENABLES SPACIAL COMPOSITION

ELECTRONIC SURVEILANCE

ELECTRONIC TO SURVEILANCE INTERNAL/EXTERNAL CORRESPOND AUTHORITIES

INTERNAL/EXTERNAL CORRESPOND TO AUTHORITIES

PASSIVE SURVEILANCE

MatERIALS

ACCESS FOR PEOPLE and BOOKS

RECORD MANAGEMENT (SYSTEM OF CLASSIFICATION)

NOISE/LIGHT/HEAT/REFLECTION/ LEDGIBLE AGAINST URBAN COMPOSITION CABLING/VENTILATION/SOCIAL USE ACCESS TO INFORMATION POINTS/WAYFINDING NEW SOURCES OF INFORMTAION

issues to consider

IT COSTS TECHNOLOGY CAPABILITIES

END USER REQUIREMENTS/DESIRES SAFETY AND SECURITY CATALYST TOWARD DIGITAL DIVIDE INTERNAL NAVIGATION SIZE OF ENTRIES

SIMPLICITY (USER INTERFACE)

CHARACTERISTICS TO CONSIDER

CONCEPTUAL CLARITY/LEDGIBILITY

PHYSICAL PROXIMITY TO COLLECTION LANGUAGE COMPATABILITY

impacted systems

ISSUES SYSTEMS RECORD MANAGEMENT (SYSTEM OF CLASSIFICATION)

METHODS

issues toFIRE & consider WatER

EQUIPMENT NOISE/LIGHT/HEAT/REFLECTION/ OF PRINT MATERIAL CABLING/VENTILATION/SOCIAL USE FROM PRINT MATERIAL NEW SOURCES OF INFORMTAION USER BELONGINGS IT COSTS

ADJACENCY TO CIVIC INSTITITIONS

COMPLETION

OF

ADJACENCY TO CIVIC TASKS TO INSTITITIONS

ADDITIONAL

LIBRARY PROVISIONS

TECHNOLOGY CAPABILITIES END USER REQUIREMENTS/DESIRES

STRatEGIES

CATALYST TOWARD DIGITAL DIVIDE VISUAL CONTINUITY IN CASE OF ARSON COMPARTMENTALISED SPACES

CHARACTERISTICS TO CONSIDER

LOCALISED(USER SPRINKLERS SIMPLICITY INTERFACE) PHYSICAL PROXIMITY TO COLLECTION LANGUAGE COMPATABILITY

EQUIPMENT OF PRINT MATERIAL FROM PRINT MATERIAL USER BELONGINGS

FIRE & WatER OPEN PLAN PREFERABLE HOWEVER DIFFICULT TO MANAGE FIRES HORIZONTAL ZONING

STRatEGIES

VISUAL CONTINUITY IN CASE OF ARSON REDUCES COMPARTMENTALISATION COMPARTMENTALISED SPACES NO SMOKING RULES LOCALISED SPRINKLERS STACKS IN DRY ENVIRONMENT AWAY FROM

OPERatION FLOW

OPEN PLAN PREFERABLE HOWEVER DIFFICULT TO MANAGE FIRES

LIGHTING

HORIZONTAL ZONING REDUCES COMPARTMENTALISATION NO SMOKING RULES

OPERatION FLOW

LIGHTING

STACKS IN DRY ENVIRONMENT AWAY FROM

SERVICES

SERVICES

TIMED FIXTURES TO PREVENT FLOODING

TIMED FIXTURES TO PREVENT FLOODING

ACOUSTICS

CLARITY OF DESIGN INTENT

ACOUSTICS

UNIFIED VISION ACROSS SERVICES

METHODS

METHODS

ACCOMODATE IN DIGNIFIED MANNER

ACCOMODATE IN DIGNIFIED MANNER

DISABLED COMPLETION

OF

ADDITIONAL

LIBRARY PROVISIONS

TASKS

TO

DISABLED CONSIDERatIONS ENTRANCES & EXITS ACCESS TO SERVICES AND COLLECTIONS INTERNAL/EXTERNAL WAYFINDING

AIR CONDITIONING

OPERABLE/IDENTIFIABLE/SELF ERGONOMIC

OPENING/

CONSIDERatIONS

ENTRANCES & EXITS STACKS/DIMENSION OF ACCESS TO SERVICES AND COLLECTIONS FURNITURE/ DIMENSION OF SERVICE NODES INTERNAL/EXTERNAL WAYFINDING IDENTIFIABLE/LOGICAL/ PROVISIONS FOR HEIGHT

OF

BLINDNESS/VISUAL IMPAIRMENT

26

MatERIALS

METHODS

DESIGN QUALITY/EFFICIENCY

CULTURAL ESTABLISHING A SIGNIFICANCE ANDCLARITY OF DESIGN INTENTESTABLISHING A 'PURPOSED' PUBLIC SPACE 'PURPOSED' PUBLIC SPACE UNIFIED VISION ACROSS SERVICES

FURNITURE

MEDIUM OF INFORMATION

INTERNAL ADJACENCY TO CIRCULATION PATHS ISSUES SYSTEMS

ERGONOMICS

architecT

TECHNOLOGY

impacted systems

EDUCATION

INTERNAL REQUIRED NUMBER ENTRANCES/EXITS

FROM PRINT MATERIAL

USER BELONGINGS

THEFT

INTERNAL ADJACENCY TO SERVICES MEDIUM OF INFORMATION

STAFF ACCESS

CULTURAL EVENTS

staff

OF PRINT MATERIAL

FROM PRINT MATERIAL

SEPERATE FROM PUBLIC

INTERNAL ADJACENCY TO SERVICES GROWTH/ATROPHY PROJECTIONS INTERNAL ADJACENCY TO CIRCULATION PATHS

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

OF PRINT MATERIAL

PASSIVE SURVEILANCE

technology criteria

CULTURAL EVENTS

public

SERVICE

location criteria

EDUCATION

location criteria

GROWTH/ATROPHY PROJECTIONS

SIZE

SERVICE

METHODS EQUIPMENT

internal criteria

ETHNICITY

SIZE

METHODS EQUIPMENT

internal criteria

AGE

ETHNICITY

EFFECTIVE CIVIC FUNCTION

safety and security criteria

POPULATION

AGE

brief definition and scope

brief definition and scope

public

POPULATION

DEMOCRATIC ACCESSIBILITY

safety and security criteria

ADAPTABILITY/EXPANSION

ADJACENCY TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT EFFECTIVE CIVIC FUNCTION INFRASTRUCTURE DEMOCRATIC ACCESSIBILITY

technology criteria

ADJACENCY TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

OPERABLE/IDENTIFIABLE/SELF

AIR CONDITIONING OPENING/

ERGONOMIC HEIGHT

OF

STACKS/DIMENSION

OF

FURNITURE/ DIMENSION OF SERVICE NODES IDENTIFIABLE/LOGICAL/

PROVISIONS

FOR

BLINDNESS/VISUAL IMPAIRMENT

27

Fast Facts LOCATION

Latitudinal Parallels: 13 ˚ 16’N Longitudinal Meridians: 80˚ 42’E

CLIMATE

Chennai is located in the tropical forest biome in accordance with the Holdridge life zones system of bioclimatic classification. Its adjacency to the coasts gives a predominantly tropical warm and humid climate, with a low diurnal temperature and monsoon within the October to December months.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Chennai faces significant risks of cyclones, typhoons and floods as within the November- December floods of 2015 that displaced 1.8 million people. Its low lying areas are vulnerable to high tidal waves such as those caused by the 2004 tsunami (REF)

ANNUAL CALENDER January

Margazhi Music & Dance Festival Mylapore Festival Mamma! apuram Dance Festival Chennai Op-en Tennis Championship The Hindu Literary Festival Pongal

Site

APRIL

Tamil New Year Panguni Festival Arubathimoovar Festival

AUGUST

Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Madras Week The Hindu Theatre Festival Annai Ve1ankanni Festival Buchi Babu Memorial Cricket Tournament

SEPTEMBER

Go:MADras Electronic Music Festival Classic Surf and Music Festival The Park’s New Festival

NOVEMBER

Chennai International Film Festival

DECEMBER

Margazhi Music and Dance Festival Kalakshetra Art Festival

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NTS

The Southern metropolis of the Coromandel Coast and capital of the Indian state Tamil Nadu, Chennai (formerly Madras) is regarded by many as the “Cultural Capital of the South” (Mohandras, 2009). Officially established in 1639 by Francis Day of the East British company, (Murali, 2003), over its four centuries of existence Chennai has evolved from a colonial port to become one of India’s largest metros. Encompassing 178.2 square kilometers and totaling a population of over 8 million. (India Online, 2018) Despite such rapid growth Chennai still maintains a rich core based in Indian tradition (Mohandras, 2009). Its music, theatre and art scenes (some of the largest in India) still practicing ancient techniques and methods established from their origins; and many of its streets still lined with remnants from the city’s colonial splendor and prior ancestral settlements. (Mohandras, 2009). The cities colonial development with administrations under the British, French and Portuguese have introduced new cultural capital to the city without detracting from those existing, “with each succeeding generation adding more layers to its unique identity, building a promising future from a proud legacy” (Mohandras, 2009).

Selected 17th within the introductory ballot of the nation’s Smart City Mission, the government of Chennai has begun planning for the city’s radical redevelopment. The ‘Chennai Smart City Limited Company’(CSLC) - inducted in 2016 with the objective to appraise, approve and release funds for smart city development projects - releasing the following mission statement as focus for incoming development proposals.

“The main aim under smart city project is to drive economic growth and improve the quality of life of people by enabling local area development and harnessing technology, especially technology that leads to Smart outcomes. Area-based development will transform existing areas (retrofit and redevelop), including slums, into better planned ones, thereby improving liveability of the whole City. Application of Smart Solutions will enable cities to use technology, information and data to improve urban infrastructure and services.” (Smart City, 2019) A particular focus has thus fallen upon the some of the most historic districts of the city, with high levels of congestion and the majority of buildings exhibiting structural irregularities (60% of buildings within the district of Georgetown being over 50 years old (CMDA, 2017)) citing these in most urgent need for redevelopment. In 2017 soon following the induction of the CSLC, Chennai’s planning authority releasing a request for proposal for the redevelopment of areas including Triplicane, Purasawalkam and Georgetown.

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PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Georgetown, Chennai. 2019. Reproduced from Google Earth

Of these historic districts, Georgetown, as the location of the city’s first settlement in 1640, occupies a central place within the city’s history (India Online, 2018) Today existing as the city’s historic heart, abundantly gifted with many architectural icons and commercial attractions attained throughout its development.

With initial proposals released by the CMDA indicating the potential complete redevelopment of the district (DaVinci School of Architecture and Design, 2013) the potential loss of its intrinsic cultural identity has become an increasingly prevalent issue.

In light of such, this thesis proposes its concept of the future public library toward the district of Georgetown, as a means by which the city can navigate its ‘smart’ redevelopment whilst maintaining its unique cultural traditions and identity.

Georgetown McKay Savage. Georgetown Area 2. 2008. Digital Image. Reproduced from Flickr.

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10,000

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Cultural Analysis

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33

Cinema

Culture?

The ‘search for tradition’ within the modern Indian city is a task fraught with complexity; owed to their often-eclectic histories, with influences from a range of different nations. In navigating the culture of Chennai and understanding its relationship to built form, inspiration is drawn from the nations established architects, who attempt to revive the countries traditional routes whilst accommodating to the problems and technologies of today.

Balkrishna Doshi (the 2018 Pritzker Prize Winner) is one such architect who since India’s independence has explored the relationship between India’s past legacies and future aspirations in architecture. Using his approach as quoted below, a method of analysing Chennai’s unique culture and interpreting this into architectural outcomes was established.

“The best way to know one’s culture is to study the existing settlements of its people, their way of life, crafts and arts. They give insight into the many problems. One observes the heat and cold, the sunshine and the moonlight, the starry heavens above and the direction of the wind. All these things that mould the life of the people… One observes the subtle significance of the porches, verandas, staircases, open spaces, balconies, terraces, etc. Which constitute the form and the character of their indigenous architecture. Seen in their depth they show the relations of classes and communities, their mutual actions and reactions….

“Statement: An Architect’s Approach,” 11/5/79 (Curtin, 1988, P160)

Interpreted from Doshi’s approach, cultural analysis was ordered into three fundamental categories, with analysis exploring each identified element’s origin, development over time and current condition. These studies produced a variety of preliminary design concepts that would be utilized within the process of design.

Intangible Cultures

Socio-Behavioral Cultures

These cultures refer to various modes of creative expression including art, music, theatre, dance and film. Analysis investigates these cultures methods, styles, instruments or products, as well as festivals dedicated to their practice or celebration.

Built Cultures

Referring to systems of social hierarchy that condition the manner people interact with one another. Additionally how these systems may effect the experience of space when accessed by different social groups in isolation or collectively.

Referring to the physical manifestation of culture in architectural form, reviewing the cities vernacular techniques and styles the reinforce the intrinsic lifestyle and identity of the city.

Carnatic Music

‘Caste’ Segregation

Architecture

Bharatanatyam Dance Craft and Making ‘Kollywood’ Cinema Cuizine

34

The Public Library

“From the first silent movie produced in 1916, through the era of the ‘talkies’ of the 1930’s, Chennai has functioned as the hub for Tamil cinema throughout southern India (Mohandras. 2009).

“Kollywood’ as the industry is colloquially known - owed to its original studio’s location in the district of Kodambakkam - has grown to become India’s second biggest Film-industry (following Bollywood of Mumbai) With origins steeped within Tamil literature and mythology Kollywood has functioned as the chief cultural voice to the masses. (Mandonca. 2016) Once financially restricted to the social elite, recent low-cost technologies have democratized the industry; ushering in the next generation of alternative films with a focus upon emerging socio-economic issues of the day. With productions exploring the destruction of the environment and natural resources, recent cast and communal conflicts, and economic and gender issues.

(Mohandras. 2009), Tamil film is evolving to embrace toward the modern generation, introducing industry to worldwide influences and audiences.

Despite increasing popularity however, the industry struggles under the compounded effect of limited multiplexes to distribute content and government restrictions on ticket prices, that make it difficult to financially sustain an alternative movie industry.

Without a central studio to support the endeavors of independent film makers that lack the financial capacity to develop cinema, Chennai’s emerging independent film industry seems doomed to financial loss and failure. (Mohandras. 2009).

A film poster from Kaaka Muttai, an independent ‘art house’ film that received both commercial and critical success. Ostensibly about to slum boys and their yearning for the taste of pizza, the film sub-textually vocalized issues regarding globalization.

Mohandras. 2009. “Kaaka Muttai” Reproduced from Best of Chennai Volume 2

Dance “As crucible of the classical dance form of Bharatanatyam, Chennai has given birth to a legion of legendary exponents of traditional style. Refreshingly, the city is also open to new ideas and forms of dance expression” (Mandonca. 2016) Historically part of the ritual of worship within the temples of Southern India, showing remarkable adaptability, the practice of dance thrives as a much-appreciated art in modern Chennai.

Its principle form, the Bharatanatyam, is indigenous to the state of Tamil Nadu (Encyclopedia Brittanica, 2009) characterised by a unique linear movement of the body, with fixed torso, bent legs and spectacular footwork (Description of Bharatanatyam, 2008). A traditional program of Bharatanatyam lasted for almost 2 hours, conducted alongside an accompanying Carnatic orchestra (Refer to Page XXX)) – composed of drums, drone and singer - playing music in response to team of dancer’s movement (Encyclopedia Brittanica, 2009). Today the artform has permeated to other exponents of culture within Chennai, becoming a common feature in Tamil theatre, film, and cultural festivals such as Margazhi in the December-January period (Mandonca. 2016).

Bharatanatyam remains popular through its fusion with contemporary styles of dance that have enriched and expanded the artform (Mohandras. 2009). Having grown to incorporate gender-neutral techniques and spread to other countries through worldwide tours (Mandonca. 2016).

A sculpture detailing a pose of Bharatanatyam found within a temple of Tamil Nadu. Such sculpture were traditionally used to record the intrinsic styles of dance unique to different temples, that students of the artform would use as instruction.

Bhasin , Gursifath. 2016. “Bharatanatyam- The Fire Dance” Digital Image.

Reproduced from medium

35

Music

Art and Craft

The fount of classical Carnatic music, Chennai has a rich musical tradition that has evolved to become a crucible element of the city (Mohandras. 2009)

“Art in Tamil Nadu has been around almost forever; you only have to look at the sculptures on the gopurams of temples and the Ayanars in villages… One could say that art grew from these early practices” (Mohandras. 2009)”

Coming into prominence in the 13th century, Carnatic music – one of two styles of a classical Indian music – remains a valued and respected artform within contemporary Chennai today.

Understood as a highly organised system of music owing to the strict mathematical relation between the fundamental note ‘S’ and the other ‘swaras’, Carnatic music differs from western forms of classical music in being tempered by varying pitch and intervals in octave. Today, the style thrives through the support of government organisations and corporate sponsors, with music sabhas (theatre companies) offering a host of plays, recitals and concerts on most evenings (Mandonca. 2016) Temples host Kacheris (concerts) during annual festivals such as the Margazhi – and initiative of the Madras Music Academy founded in 1927 which features music and dance concerts, lecture demonstrations and performances by top artists from around the country.

Beginning in the 7th century with the sculpture of stone as evidenced in the rock cut temples of Mahabalipuram, Chennai has nourished a artistic legacy that has evolved to become unique to the city. Stimulated by the influence of the British, French and Portuguese, Art in Chennai flourished from its traditional beginnings to expand to include a diverse array of mediums. These artistic outlets most notably including bronze sculpturing, printmaking and enameling, elevated the expressive capacity of Chennai’s artists and provided greater depth in its exploration of local myth and legend (Mandonca. 2016) The establishment of the Madras School of Art (now the Government College of Fine Arts) in 1850, nurtured these artistic endeavors, with artist and former student K Muralidharan owing the uniqueness of its art to its “roots in tradition, the folklore and mythologies of the region” (Mandonca. 2016) Today through city festivals such as Art Chennai, the artistic oeuvre of Chennai art is expanding to connect art to the common ‘chennaiite’ through technology; exhibiting contemporary art and photographs on the cities beaches to inspire the youth to continue its legacy. Sanjay Tulsyan, convener of Art Chennai attests that its development is contingent to the growth in the cities aesthetic consciousness “Our younger Artists are inspired by the world and art trends abroad. With good support… the city could soon become a strong art centre in the country”

A Kolam, a ritualistic practice performed by women upon the doorsteps of homes. Traditionally warning off bad spirits, Kolam has evolved to become an expressive artform were patterns exemplify geometrical symmetry, precision and an understanding of the complex interconnected existence of human beings and the cosmos.

(Authors Own)

Carnatic Instruments

Carnatic music includes a variety of percussion, stringed and wind instruments with different combinations used toward different musical events.

The Udukkai

An hourglass, membranous drum used in devotional and folk music throughout India. 6-8mm in Diameter

The Veena

An ancient stringed instrument similar to a lute. Varying in string number from one to as much as 100. 1-1.2 meters long

Tamil Cinema has additionally been a prominent contributor to the development of music in the city. With directors pushing the boundaries of sound and using Carnatic music to introduce a cultural resonance to their films (Mohandras. 2009) Chennai’s colonial past has introduced the city western forms of music, with an engaging rock scene that has grown in popularity in recent years (Mandonca. 2016)

The Nadaswaram A wooden wind instrument with an auspicious sound commonly used in temple or religious festivals

Cuisine

Chennai Produce

Famous for its belief that serving food is a service to humanity (Amma canteen, 2016), cuisine and food culture within Chennai is an inseparable feature of its city’s identity. Originating from its agrarian roots prior to the cities formal establishment, the traditional Tamil Brahmin would look to their kitchen gardens for faithfully tended tamarind, banana, mango, lime, and coconut for ingredients for cooking. Serving a meal involved being seated on the floor, having the food placed upon a banana leaf and using the clean fingers of the right hand to transfer the food to the mouth.

Tamarind

Mustard Seeds

Asafoetida

Coconut Leaf

Banana

Mango

The Kanjira

Similar to a tambourine. It consists of a circular wooden frame of jack wood, with a diameter of seven to eight inches and depth of approximately two inches.

The Thavil

A percussion instrument consisting of a barrell shaped drum carved of jackfruit.

The Mridangam

The Morsing

The Shankha

The Ghatam

An ancient instrument made from a large piece of hollowed out jackfruit wood. The two mouths are covered with goatskin, and attached to each other with tightly bound leather straps.

Fashioned from the shell of a predatory sea snail, the Shankha is used within both Buddhist and Hindu music

A percussion instrument, the morsing is played by holding the prongs against the upper and lower teeth, with the metal stick protruding out and plucked with the index finger.

An ancient percussion instrument unique to carnatic music, fashioned from clay and reinforced with brass fixings

The principle produce and ingredients used in the unique dishes of Chennai. Such plants were common within the gardens of ancestral colonies (Mohandras. 2009) (Authors Own)

Today street food is the predominant diet of the modern chennaite, utilizing different compositions of rice, legumes and lentils to create dishes such as idli, dosa, or brihani. (Mohandras.

2009) In light of continued urbanisation, traditional practices associated with preparing meals are slowly beginning to dissolve, with the availability of consumer products and growing issues in agriculture reducing the health and quality of foods produced.

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37

Heritage Listed Buildings

‘Caste’ Segregation “The caste system of India is a stratified and hierarchical socio-economic organisation of society” which emerged from the ancient periods of Indian civilization. (Gurmeet, 2008) Organising society into four rigid categories, (refer to figure X) for millennia caste dictated almost every aspect of Indian social life governing ones economic, political and cultural liberties. (Thorat, 2005) Despite centuries of colonialism, civil unrest and the introduction of the ‘information age’, caste still commands society with an air of utter and unrelenting dominance in 21st century India; that perhaps may now define less social roles but still dictates in a large part social interaction between citizens. (Gurmeet, 2008) Public space and the design of architecture as such offers a poignant backdrop for the influences of caste to latch onto a physical dimension; with the interaction between members of different castes being understood to inform, deform or reform the function of space. (Gurmeet, 2008). A study

by Sukhadeo Thorat, Professor Emeritus, Jawaharlal Nehru University, recording empirical evidence of this effect; Caste based exclusion and discrimination being recorded to occur in terms of “access to social needs supplied by the government or public institutions, or by private institutions in education, housing and health” (Thorat, 2005, P4) Despite its governance within formal architecture, public space in the form of common property such as roads, water bodies and parks have been shown to dilute castes staunch hierarchy, placing members of different castes in close proximity in space that seems to provide ‘hierarchal anonymity’ (Gurmeet, 2008). Despite this coexistence however a study of the Dashashwamedh Ghat of Varnasi, (Gurmeet, 2008) still found that common spaces are subject to caste segregation, stating that “each individuals perspective of the Ghat, and their expectation of its use, is formed from a collection of representations of the Ghat, which are perceived even before the physical architecture of the Ghat is witnessed in person. Therefore, the space itself gathers multiple meanings.” (Gurmeet, 2008, P20) Caste therefore becomes an unavoidable influence in the design of architecture in contemporary India, with careful consideration of its physical consequences being essential to the design of universally accessible spaces. Showing a reduced dominance of its influence, common spaces such as roads, waterbodies and parks provide the greatest freedom to all castes, that with an understanding of the perspectives of each group allowing for the design of space where all can function in close proximity. This Thesis takes consideration of these effects and by the process of analysis and design intends to negotiate the physical constraints of caste.

The Hindu “Varna” Caste System Varna meaning type, order, colour or class functioned as the framework for grouping people into classes, including four castes with an implicit fifth group being allocated who were deemed to exist outside its scope. Determined by birthright and defining occupation, one can attribute an approximate correspondence of architectural style to each of these ranks based upon the buildings associated with each occupation. Although today now defining less social roles, through the associated features of the particular styles listed, architectural design can still represent a different castes (Khalfaoui, 2009).

Brahmin Including priests, cleric people and teachers and architecturally temples, stupas and mosques.

Sri Kaalikambal Temple J6

Pachaiyappa College F10

Adam’s Building G10

Spiritual >1700’s

Neoclassical 1700’s

Colonial Vernacular 1800’s

•Bilateral Symettry •Use of Pilaster •Gabled Roof •Decorative Cornice •Triangular Pediment

•Use of the ‘Madras Terrace’ •Use of courtyards •Use of finials •Sloped roofs •Extended Eaves •Linarity of facade and plan

Qualities

•Catholic Churches •Hindu Temples •Jain Temples •Gopuram •Protestant Churches •Indic Stepwells

Material introduction •Marble •Stone •Brick

Qualities

Material introduction •Stone •Marble

Qualities

Material introduction •Terracotta •Iron •Timber

Kshatriyas

Including warriors, kings and rulers architecturally palaces, forts and government buildings

The Madras Law College H10

Indo-Sarcenic 1850’s Qualities

Vaishyasyas Including artisans, merchants, farmers and tradesman and architecturally markets and places of commerce.

•Use of domed roofs •Use of arches and arcades •Use of minarets •Vaulted Ceilings •Use of pavilions

Material introduction •Marble •Stone •Brick

Dare’s House K10

Gokhale Hall J7

Art Deco 1920’s Qualities

Modernist 1930’s Qualities

•Geometric form •Deeply recessed fenestration •Curved angulature •Flat roof •Vertical emphasis •Pronounced entries

Material introduction •Concrete •Marble

•Symetrical Geometry •Gridded facade and plan •Abstract form •Sharp angulature •Functional focus •Minimal ornamentation

Material introduction •Concrete •Steel •Glass

Building Sketches

State Bank Of India Metropolitian Magistrates Court General Post Office Hong Kong And Shanghai Bank Royapuram Railway Terminal Old Town Wall (Madi Poonga) Reserve Bank Of Indiq Cornwallis Cuphola Pachaiyappas Trust Commercial Building Sical Building Gordon & Woodroffe Madras High Court And Law College Complex Young Men’s Christian Asscociation Anderson Church Pachaiyappas College Sri Chenna Malleeswarar Temple Sri Chenna Kesavaperumal Temple Siva Subramania Swamy Temple Govindu Naicker Secondary School Dare House Bombay Mutual Building Boundary Pillar Adam Building Appar Achagam Arcot Lutheran Church Aural Institute C.M.S Centenary Hall Janasakthi Press T.M. Ghouse Building Wesley An Chapel St.francis Xavier’s Church Tuckers Church Old Jajl (Bharathi Women’s College) Govt.secondary School For Muslim Girls Armenian Church St.mary’s Anglo Indian Hr.sec.school St Mary’s Co-cathedral Binnys Limited Kachaleeswarar Temple New Maritime Agencies Pvt.limited South India House Gokhale Hall Catholic Centre Krishnan Koil Raja Annamalai Memorial Hall St.thomas Orthodox Cathedral Sub Registrars Office & Residential Quarters William Charles Memorial Church Kandaswam Y Temple Shaw Wallace Building Sudhaasana Building Chennai Sai Kalikambal Kamateswaraa Oevasthanam St Columban’s High School 8uilding In Binny”s Compound Regal House Seven Wells Market Sainivasa Nila Yam Sai Mallikeswaaaa Thirukoil Market Godown Sri Adikesava Perumal Temple St. Mark’s Church Vallalar Illam Walnut Willies Building Binny’s Recreation Club Essa Abba Sa!t Building Sri Muthukumaraswami Temple Habdul Hakim ‘S Hindu Musum High School Trinity Chapel V.Peaumal Chetty & Sons.

Chennai Sri Ekambaaeswaraa Oevastanams Government Stanley Hospital Madras Electricity Board Office Chennai House Bairagimadam Temple Kalashtiswarar Temple Masjidmamoor Chandraprabhu Jain Temple Hazarath Syed Thurabudeen Sha Khadaiyul Chisty Outubul Akhtab Durgah Memon Masjid Old Mint (Government Printing Press) Upputhua Alwaa Ch Etty Ramanuja Koodam Kalva Ramanna Chettiyar Komuttula Chattiram

(Authors Own)

Architecture Shudrasasyas Including workman and labourers and architecturally low cost housing and buildings of the poor.

Dalits Including street and latrine cleaners and architecturally low slums and squallors.

By virtue of its colonial development, the built fabric of modern Chennai exists as a broad confluence of many architectural styles.

Apart from the traditional architecture of temples and ‘Agraharams’ (traditional temple dwellings) gifted by ancestral colonies, IndoSarcenic, Colonial, neoclassical, art deco and modernist styles have successively been introduced to the city (Murali, 2003). As its historic heart, the streets of Georgetown have inherited a great wealth of these traditional architectures, that through time have become invaluable sources of personal identity and pride.

Such means categorisation however only limit the understanding of the incredible depth of Georgetown’s architecture, with pure examples of such styles listed as heritage amassing to only 0.75% of total built structures within the district. As sketch analysis indicates (Refer to Appendix) the majority of Georgetown’s architecture defies all means of definitive categorisation, with buildings consisting of an eclectic mix of techniques and motifs drawn from the variety of styles introduced throughout its

development. Noted as a phenomenon unique to Indian culture, where “invading cultures brought in their unique influences and became assimilated into an indigenous Indianness” (Parikh 2010 P45) such an approach establishes a unique architectural identity to the district of Georgetown.

Described as a ‘living tradition’ that consistently adapts and suitably transforms to changing circumstances, that has survived the past and promises to prevail in the future (Pandya 2010 P35). Thus, Georgetown in a sense lives within three indiviual time zones.

The legacies of the past and aspirations of the future combining to form the reality of the present.

With respect to the traditional wisdom of Georgetown’s architecture, this thesis intends to reinterpret such traditions through the technology of the library in a manner which maintains its connection to the past and inherent cultural meaning. The following page reveals the principle concepts drawn from Georgetown’s architecture.

Euronews, How India’s caste system works, 2016, Digital Image. Reproduced from: Euronews.

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The Building An architectural polyglot, Parrys Bookshop epitomizes the eclectic fusion that is Georgetown’s architecture. Neoclassical columns, art deco curves, modernist glazing and a variety of different materials all evident within this single structure.

The Anna Centenary Library

An isometric render produced during its design.

Rather then defining form, such architecture describes a unique method of approach practiced within Georgetown; were the architecture of the past can be used to create something entirely new.

“Anna Centenary Library” 2010.

Digital Image. Reproduced form: The Hindu

This built culture encourages this thesis approach to integrating technology with tradition within the library, reinterpreting the techniques and traditions of the past to provide an entirely new form of library service.

The Connemara Public Library

“Parry’s Bookshop”

The interior collection and reading spaces portraying the elaborate detail of its internal design

(Bonjour Madras. 2017. “Olympic Cards Limited” Digital Image. Reproduced from Google Maps)

Kaarthik, JM. n.d. “Connemara Library” Digital Image. Reproduced from LBB

The Street The Georgetown street presents as a chaotic composition of multiple cultural identities offered by its local people and architecture alike. Armenian Street (pictured left) being an explicit example, where the disorderly flow of people upon its surface is reflected by its surrounding architecture Rather than conflict, these cultures act as counterpoints; and collectively establish a new cultural identity entirely unique to Georgetown.

The Indian street therefore presents a unique architectural opportunity to the library, were the multivalent functions and services offered can be united to establish a singular identity.

“Armenian Street” (Corporation of Chennai. “Armenian Street” Digital Image. Reproduced from Mapio)

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The street is additionally understood to function as Georgetown’s ‘common ground’ where people of different race, religion and caste can welcome. (Refer to page 32)

The Public Library Since establishing its first public library in 1661, Chennai has played a pioneering role in the typology’s greater development within India. (Venkatesan, 2015) Its Connemara Library, constructed in 1860, was regarded as foundational in publicizing the ‘public library concept’ as understood by Indian people today; that later following the independence of India in 1947 became one of four national depository libraries and the depository library for the united nations.

(Venkatesan, 2015). Its Academic Library at the University of Madras (constructed in 1907), functioned as the platform for the celebrated Librarian academic Dr. S R Ranganathan, who through his research and publications contributed tremendously to the development of library legislature in India (Venkatesan, 2015). Most notable of these being his ‘5 laws of library science’ that became the accepted philosophy of many librarians at a global scale (Rubin, 2014), and his drafting of Madras’ Public Libraries act that become the first public libraries act passed in India in 1948.

The legacy of this prominent library culture continues to this day within the 163 individual public Libraries of the Chennai Metropolitan area (refer to page 44). These libraries continuing to innovate, exploring newfound services and functions such as personal book delivery at (Easwari Lending libraries and hosting supporting art and community initiatives such as at the Library ‘Hippocampus’. Its most recently constructed government library, the Anna Centenary Library (2010) is Asia’s largest public Library. Accommodating a capacity of 1.2 million books and 1,250 people, the library incorporates state of the art multimedia services and over 500 high performance computers. (Venkatesan, 2015)

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Site Selection

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Site Analysis and Selection Being in proximity of other civic institutions, as these and libraries are often accessed in single journeys by users

Within a location of adequate safety and security, with adequate lighting, and public infrastructure for pedestrians.

Through analysis, the vacant plots within the districts South Eastern Corner showed the greatest suitability for the construction of a public library.

Being in proximity to public infrastructure for use by patrons living beyond the immediate area.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

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ARMENIA N ST.

The potential to adapt or expand with future growth. With access to additional space for building or the capacity to extend the structure vertically

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With a number of vacant plots available for selection throughout the Georgetown district, analysis begun by first determining which of these were best suited for the efficient function of a public library. The criteria for which dictated by IFLA recommendations listed as follows.

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Civic and Cultural Structures Analysis

1. Seven Wells Market 2. Statue of St. George 3. Kothawalchavadi Market 4. Broadway Bus Terminus 5. YMCA Building 6. Madras High Court 7. The Armenian Church 8. St. Mary’s Co Cathedral 9. Gokhale Hall 10. Lif Insurance Company (LIC) of India. 11. Kachaleeswara Temple 12. Kalikambal temple 13. Masjid Mimoor 14. Dare House 15.

The State Bank of India 16. Georgetown General Post Office.

Analysis revealed a concentration both civic and cultural institutions within the districts south eastern quadrant. This most likely owing to the district’s initial development from this location with the construction of Fort St. George in (1644) located at the base of the topographic image.

Security and Lighting Analysis

The location of street lighting was used as an indicator of areas with greater levels public presence both during the day and night. Analysis revealed that Northern and Western sites were only partially lit, with South Eastern sites featuring lighting on all sides.

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Site Plan

(Authors Own)

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Detailed Analysis PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

1 Selected Site

Upon detailed analysis, the site was ultimately selected to be the vacant plot on the corners of Armenian Street and Errabula Chetty (Refer to image above).

This was determined be a review of the criteria as listed below, as determined by recommendation of IFLA and Indian public library standards.

Located within an active area of the district with adequate lighting and diurnal public presence for safety and security

The cultural significance of the site and its location along a processional pathway frequently used during religious and festivals (refer to the following page)

2 Madras Law Courts and Offices 3 State Bank of India 4 State Post Office 5 Broadway Bus Terminus 6 St. Thomas Higher Secondary School 7 St. Columbans Anglo-Indian Higher Secondary

School

8 Kachaleeswarar Temple 9 St. Mary’s Co Cathedral 10 The Armenian Church

Adequate accessibility for pedestrians via public infrastructure and pathways

Dual Pathway Single Pathway No Pathway

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Public Infrastructure Analysis

Pedestrian Accessibility Analysis

Analysis found that the majority of Georgetown was in poor proximity to public transit services, with the Beach Rail station being located on the district’s eastern perimeter and the Broadway Bus Terminus located at its centre south. A single bus service dissects the district, with stops in adjacent the vacant sites in the districts south.

Due to illegal development and encroachment the majority of the district’s buildings are constructed to the roads edge, with only few streets of adequate width to facilitate a pedestrian pathway. The diagram illustrates the condition of the principle pedestrian paths of the district.

Adjacency to complimentary institutions such as schools and civic buildings Proximity of public infrastructure and transit services The ability to grow and expand in the future through additional land

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The Binny Mills Site

Shantaram. (2009). “Last Vestiges�. Digital Image. Reproduced from Chennai Madras Blogspot.

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200-year-old Binny headquarters, a heritage building, now history� 2017. Digital Image. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/61027661.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst

Housing the original offices of the multifaceted Binny Mills corporation, the Binny Mills site was once a key fixture upon the corners of Armenian street and Errabula Chetty. Its bold neoclassical features serving as an emblem of the rise of Madras from a humble village settlement to powerful commercial metropolis, that now lay in partial rubble following its demolition in 2017. (Kabirdoss, 2017) With its principle facade bordering Armenian street surviving the demolition, a design opportunity was observed in utilizing the buildings remains within design.

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Design Development

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PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

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Connemara Public Library Anna Centenary Library

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The Adyar Library and Research Centre

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Roja Muthiah Research Library

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Chintadripet Public Library

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British Council Library

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Shenroy Nagar Library

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Little Love Library

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M.V.C. Library

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Sri Ramakrishna Math Library

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Jain Library

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Tamil Nadu Government Library

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Rayapuram Public Library

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Chennai Corporation Library

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Annanagar East Full time Branch Library

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Ayanavram Public Library

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Periyar Nagar Public Library

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Corporation Boys Higher Secondary School Library

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Government Library

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Little Free Library

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KMC College Library

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Anjali Library Lending Libraries

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Ayanavram Public Library NA

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PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

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Common Amenity

Childrens Areas

Specialized Cultural Spaces

Introducing users to the library and facilitating their circulation to its many facilities, these spaces are the fundamental toward the communication of the library’s identity and culture.

In this way, they serve both a practical and symbolic purpose; to ensure the efficient navigation toward and operation of the facilities of the library; and to symbolically represent the culture and tradition of the library and that of its local community.

The

These spaces reflect the expanding role of the library as a place fostering creation and enable users to explore their interests by direct experimentation with tangible objects.

Entrance Foyer Information and Reception Desk Loan Return User Meeting and Relaxation Chappals and Personal Storage

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Toward the continuity of culture in the future, it is important that these spaces explore the integration of culture for the coming generation to experience.

Childrens Collection Childrens Reading Room

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children’s library caters for children up to the age of 14 and therefore must accommodate to users of considerable difference in size, maturity and interests. To ensure the enjoyment of all users, the space must be segmented with areas dedicated to specific brackets of age. It is advised that these areas are sequenced by order of age with the oldest in closest proximity to the general collection, creating a natural transition between the spaces and limiting conflict between groups.

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General Areas The foundational spaces of the library encompassing approximately 50% of its footprint, these spaces are essential in the provision of the libraries traditional services and crucial in establishing the libraries identity.

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General Collection Specialized or Historical Collections Study Cubicles Group Study Rooms Reading Room

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Promotion and Activity Spaces The activity of these spaces are central toward the libraries communication of culture and tradition toward the local community.

These spaces complement the reading and documentation services of the library with the primary objectives of encouraging dialogue between library users and bringing books closer to cultural activities. This establishing a sense of creativity throughout the library.

It is within these spaces specifically that the influence of new technologies is experienced most profoundly, and therefore this thesis’ greatest interest in the integration of local tradition and culture.

It is important for these spaces share a dynamic relationship with the fundamental facilities of the library enabling their simultaneous experience. The interface between these must be intuitive and be legible to people of either traditional or modern disposition. and additionally not be perceived as a superficial attachment but beneficial to the holistic experience of the library.

For the purposes of this thesis, makerspace has been divided in respect to both high (modern) and low (traditional) examples of technology. Explored separately here, these spaces are likely to be integrated within this thesis final design.

Maker Space Cinema Space Food Space Music Space

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Multifunction Space Conference Rooms

The locational analysis detailing the location of Chennai’s principle public libraries and their distance from the target location of Georgetown (Authors Own)

Location Analysis

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

To determine the scope to which the proposed library should be designed, a greater study was performed upon the existing libraries of the Chennai Metropolitan area.

Analysis revealed the current operation of 163 individual libraries within the Chennai Metropolitan area; a concentration greatly exceeding the amount prescribed by IFLA recommendations. Closer examination of these libraries revealed however a pattern of corruption and neglect was evident throughout the typology; with news articles regarding Chennai’s principle public libraries detail their tremendously poor quality; with accounts of infestation of vermin, dwindling collections, poor quality furnishings and even the degradation of built form (REFERENCE).

Such issues have been met with public outcry and would be assumed to have catalyzed the formation of a large quantity of community operated libraries in response.

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These libraries make up approximately 90% of Chennai’s total libraries and often only total between 1000 and 1500 items within their

catalogues. Where Chennai’s government libraries operate in a more traditional manner, these are seen to take an explorative approach, introducing new programs and technologies to their services. Such examples including the Easwari Lending Libraries, that deliver books directly to users homes, dedicated libraries to young children and families such as the little spark library and A to Z libraries and the Hippocampus Library that runs a number of art and community initiatives over the weekend.

These observations highlight a number of issues that this thesis’ project must additionally accommodate.

• The desire and current lack of an effective large scale library within the metropolitan region of Chennai • The poor maintenance and neglect of these institutions by government bodies calls into question the intended operation and management of future libraries. And if governmental issues are left unresolved how the libraries may develop in the future.

In consideration of these factors, the decision was made for the scope of the library to encompass the entire Georgetown district as stated within the DDP of the CMDA. Although future development would likely reduce the district’s built density and population, for the purposes of this thesis the current population of 297, 832 would be used as per the most current population data attainable.

Library Brief and Definition Having determined its scope, focus turned to defining the particular spaces the library should maintain - and from these spaces those that harbored potential for the for the proposed integration of culture and technology.

Through joint review of IFLA (International Federation of Libraries Association) Public Library Standards and the Bureau of Indian Standards Article 1553- 1960 (Design of Library Buildings) a Schedule of Accommodation was created, which provided a preliminary framework upon which to generate design.

Detailing the suggested size (when applicable), a definition of architectural quality, layout, equipment and the adjacencies of spaces required, the schedule functioned as a referential document that would legitimize design decisions.

Throughout the process of design, the Schedule was consistently updated upon the realisation of new opportunities and potential spaces that came about through the integration of cultural elements and

technology.

Above details the ultimate room schedule that was created to inform the final design.

Categorised into 5 types of space, this schedule would provide an initial framework through which to develop architectural design and through its description of each space, highlight potential opportunities for the integration of Chennai’s cultural traditions and practices.

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Cultural Spaces

Cultural Spaces Development (Stage One)

The evolution of the public library in response to emerging technologies has seen the birth of a variety of new library spaces. These spaces - evident within such libraries as the ‘Lochal’ of Tilburg, Sweden have helped establish the libraries greater role as a cultural signifier to society, but by virtue of these very technologies are seen to predominantly focus upon emerging global, digital or ‘pop cultures’.

Library

Craft, Design and Making

-Individual Reading and Study of both physical and digital collections

- Traditional bronze, stone, and wood work creating traditional products

-The review of traditional materials such as Tamil and Sanskrit Texts of the Region

- The production of floats for religious and cultural festivals

-Children’s collection to nurture the cultural development and understanding of coming generations

- Modern fabrication through 3D Modelling and Printing using new technologies

This thesis utilizes a similar approach to such modern libraries but chooses to define these spaces upon the cultural elements and traditions discerned from research. In doing so, a ‘cultural foundation’ is established for each unique space of the library, upon which innovative technologies can be overlaid.

The process of developing cultural spaces began by first generating potential functions and programs of the library based upon the researched elements of Chennai’s culture.

These functions attempted to ensure the continued practice of the cultural element in question and as well as provide new opportunities based upon modern technologies and facilities.

-Group Study fostering collaboration and exchange -Co-working spaces for developing industries that lack space and finances for formal offices

The design of these cultural spaces would occur through a tree staged process where potential programs regarding cultural elements where generated, technologies and services that facilitated these programs were selected, and different spacial adjacencies and opportunities for collaboration between spaces were identified.

-Lectures and Exhibitions upon both cultural and digital content

The following pages summarise this process, culminating in the production of a functional organigram would provide the conceptual form through which to interpret physical design. Please refer to the Appendix’ “Project Sketchbook” for sketching that contributed to this process.

-The large scale performance of Orchestral groups playing both traditional and contemporary music

Carnatic Music -The individual and group based practice of both traditional and contemporary musical instruments

-The exploration and fusion of musical styles combining both modern and traditional instruments

- Painting and sketch art - Computer aided design using programming to create games and film

(Authors own)

- The practice and development of traditional and contemporary styles of dance through informal and professional lessons - Live Performances and recital of dance compositions that can be viewed by the public - The exploration and development of new styles of dance - The casual appreciation of dance by users

- Professional studio space and film equipment for use by independent filmmaker and the public

-The production and growth of products to be used within cooking, in a manner analagous to the kitchen gardens of the regions past.

Exploring the potential programs that could arise through the collaboration of proposed cultural spaces. This study would provide an understanding of the potential arrangement of spaces within the library as opportunities for spaces to become interconnected or overlap.

Bharatanatyam Dance

-The professional recording of music

-The opportunity for lessons and cooking workshops to learn traditional cooking techniques and recipes

Programmatic Organigram diagram

- The exhibition of the products of the library

‘Kollywood’ Cinema

-The consumption and tasting of traditionally produced cuizines of the Tamil Nadu Region

The proposed functions were then used to inform the selection of a variety of spaces that would provision their action within the library. These spaces - both culturally and technologically oriented - were then analysed collectively to identify beneficial adjacencies, potential collaborations or complete integrations between spaces to accommodate the many complex traditions of Chennais culture. The image below summarises this process which was developed in conjunction with this thesis’ schedule of accommodation.

- Robotics based design

-The casual appreciation of traditional and contemporary music

Cuizine

Cultural Spaces Development (Stage Two)

- Postproduction and Editing facilities enabling the development of high quality cinema

Programmatic Plan development

A sketch study exploring the arrangement of spaces in plan. This process would consider the potential collaborations identified from the programmatic organigram study above as well as the environmental and functional demands of each space determined by the Schedule of Accommodation.

(Authors own)

- Material workshops and production facilities for the creation of sets and props for filming - Professional Makeup and Wardrobe facilities - Private and public screening facilities to facilitate the distribution and viewing of products produced by the library - ‘Behind the Scenes’ tours of production facilities granting the public understanding of the ‘magic of cinema’

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Design Concepts

Cultural Spaces Development (Stage Three)

This process ultimately resulted in the creation of five unique spaces would explore the integration of Chennai’s Intangible cultural elements through a variety of technologies within the design of the library.

Generated from site and cultural analysis, the following design concepts were generated to inform the general layout and design of the proposed library.

The image below illustrating the functional organigram generated from analysis, which describes the proposed facilities and their conceptual relationships.

The Library Street Functional Organigram

Reading Room

Developed through the process of design, the functional organism begins to describe the unique facilities and services provided within each of the five unique cultural spaces. Within this process, certain cultural elements were united based upon their use of similar facilities and the opportunities for collaboration between their explored cultures.

This would provide the general framework through which to begin the process of architectural design (Authors own)

As identified through research the Indian street plays an essential role toward establishing the unique cultural identity of the Georgetown; as well as functioning as the defined ‘common ground’ as a space accessible to all irrespective of race, religion, of caste. (pg. 88)

Group study Spaces Individual Study spaces

Special Collection

Childrens Library Library staff Facilities and Offices General Collection

LITERATURE & LIBRARY

Computer Labs

Cafe

Robotics Facilities Art Galleries

Material Workshops

CRAFT, DESIGN AND MAKING

CUIZINE & ART

Cooking Facilities

3d printing Facilities

Private music Rooms

Co-working Facilities

FILM & CO-WORKING

Wardrobe Facilities

Group music Room

MUSIC & DANCE

Dance studio

Makeup Facilities

Through the process of design, the spatial device of the street was identified as a potential form upon which to model the entrances and internal navigation pathways of the proposed library; inviting its unique cultural experience to invade its internal spaces and establish the buildings identity as a common space accessible to all.

In design, this particular concept was used to determine the orientation of internal pathways within the library, aligning their directional axis with those of the site’s perpendicular streets. By establishing these as thoroughfares through the library, this additionally created distinct volumes within the site that would be for the placement of identified cultural spaces.

In further establishing the libraries connection to the street, this concept expanded to the libraries vertical plane, and was used to determine the height of these divided volumes to blend the design seamlessly within its surrounding built context.

Theatre bio box Private Cinema

Film studio

Music Recording Facilities

Music/theatre Stage space

(Authors own)

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The Binny Mills Remnants

An Urban Precense Rather than a unique style or a singular architecture, Chennai’s cultural identity is portrayed through the collective expression of the diverse cultures the district has come to absorb. These cultures fusing through the passage of time and development, to create a built landscape where any single architecture can only be appreciated through the greater understanding of its surrounding contexts.

With the eastern ground floor facade of the Binny Mills offices surviving its demolition upon the site, the design process explored a variety of potential approaches toward utilizing these remains as a feature within design.

Ultimately, these final remnants were used to inform the design of platform level upon which the respective street and library spaces would be placed.

In a practical sense, by raising the public spaces of the library above the street level the ground floor became the principle service space of the design, enabling to operation of different library services and staff without interfering with the experience of users above. These pathways would additionally allow for the seamless transition of large-scale materials between the dedicated cultural spaces of the library, fostering new means of collaboration and potential relationships between these cultures.

Respecting this condition, the concept of an “‘Urban Presence” attempts to reject the libraries identity as a district object separate from its contexts of Georgetown but rather integrating to become part of the greater built landscape of Georgetown. To achieve this the heights of the 6 volumes of the library respond to that of their immediate neighbours creating a seamless spacial connection between the buildings. By additionally utilizing the traditional material palate found within the district - Red wire cut brick from locally sourced clay and Sal wood, a hardwood native to the region - the library dissolves to visually blend within its contexts, only revealing its internal innovations upon entry.

This would also provide a significant environmental advantage. With the district’s adjacency to the ocean and recent history of flooding (The November- December floods of 2015 where 1.8 million people throughout the city were displaced (Mandonca. 2016)) identifying its raised platform as a potential gathering point in case of such a disaster.

Northern Conceptual Elevation 1:1000 @A3

With its former identity as an iconic public building, the platform level would additionally create an interesting metaphor for the proposed library ‘being built upon the foundations of the past’. This would expand to inspire the principle materials of the proposed design, the extended walls of the platform, and bordering walls of public spaces matching the painted white concrete of the Binny facade. The remaining library composed of red heritage brick and Sal wood timber as locally available materials.

A preliminary conceptual diagram exploring the concept of a ‘floating’ space existing above the Binny Mills Facade (Authors Own)

A sketch of the remaining Binny Mills Facade illustrating its iconic arched apertures.

(Authors own)

Southern Conceptual Elevation 1:1000 @A3

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Design The process of design occurred through an iterative sketch process exploring multiple possibilities in design. please see the ‘Project Sketchpad’ in the appendix (pg. 98) for the design process that led to this final proposal

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INTRODUCING

THE SUPER LIBRARY Digital innovations of the past 20 years have incited the most emphatic transition within the library to date; with the introduction of the internet and new electronic media granting the potential to the typology to assist toward the cultural development of cities. But by the pervasiveness of new technologies now usurping the traditions and practices of societies past, libraries have begun to focus upon emerging digital cultures over those of their context’s past. Without a means of introducing traditional cultures to emerging technologies; or an architecture that harmonizes these in-built form; will the absorption of technologies come at the consequence of culture and tradition permanently?

Sited in the historic District of Georgetown, Chennai; in wake of future plans for its ‘smart’ redevelopment, the Super library explores a radically new approach to library design. Identifying the cultural peculiarities of the city, through five unique spaces the library explores how such cultures can be adapted through technologies and integrated within the function of a library. In doing so, granting Chennai’s culture a renewed vitality and ensuring its future survival

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Program The architectural program of the design is born through the unification of the Functional Organigram (refer to page 54) and Schedule of Accommodation (Refer to Appendix) generated in research. This would introduce library spaces to the physical context of site; responding to its various environmental qualities and existing built infrastructures.

The fuctional organigram was transposed upon the sites east west axis. Each spaces individual rooms then articulated based upon the contextual influences of the site

LITERATURE & LIBRARY

CRAFT, DESIGN AND MAKING

The image below details the arrangement of spaces upon the libraries podium level and there articulation vertically through its two parallel elevations. Creating a pleasant internal atmosphere.

Principle Details Structural System

CUIZINE & ART

FILM & CO-WORKING

A waffle slab construction system of 250x250mm concrete beams giving excellent structural rigidity and mitigating vibrations throughout the building.

Each floor is insulated by a 100mm thick layer of high density polystyrene blocks sandwiched between two 100mm thick concrete slabs; giving a clean soffit and mitigating thermal transmission between floors.

MUSIC & DANCE

A 50mm coat of traditional red oxide is used as a surface treatment for flooring, giving an earthy, warm and tantalizing texture, familiar to Indian architecture.

Facade System

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An electronically operated louvered system composed of 3m lengths of 300x50mm unfinished sal wood timber placed in an alternating vertical/horizontal pattern that conceal an insulated floor to ceiling glass wall.

Sal wood, native to the area of Chennai, has great strength and durability, with excellent resistance to water, termites and fungi.

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3.

Roofing System 1200x1200mm sheets of Translucent white Adanga marble installed within a bespoke framing system that gives a flat roof surface mitigating water buildup.

The translucent marble permits filtered light to enter the building creating a pleasant internal atmosphere.

NTS

1.

Library and Literature space, placed upon the principle elevation of the site above the final remnants of the Binny Mills Offices as a symbolic gesture of its significance. It’s facade is curved to improve visibility of the prominent streets negotiating its envelope

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2.

3.

Craft, Design & Making and Film & Co-working are placed along the sites northern border allowing seamless access from the street for the expected delivery of materials.

Cusine & Art and Music & Dance spaces placed upon the sides southern edge, exploiting its exterior open space allowing its operations expand beyond the library as well as the prominent southern breeze of Chennai to ventilate internal spaces

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THE MUSIC BOX

Music & Dance Space Cultures Carnatic Music Bharatanatyam Dance

Description ‘The Music Box’ celebrates the traditional qualities of Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance, whilst inviting new forms of each through contemporary technologies that ensure their continued practice and development.

Concrete beams supporting a translucent marble roof, inviting pleasant filtered light into the space.

A Gallery level overlooking the music box, allowing for the causal appreciation of music by users, accessible by an internal stair integrated within the designs custom cabinetry or the raised public forecourt of the library The Music Box, enclosed by instruments within bespoke cabinetry from the plethora of different styles introduced to Chennai and beyond The Music Box’s control center, functioning as a recording studio internally as well as the technical booth for performances within the theatre space below.

Private music rooms positioned around the central music space.

Accessed through hidden doors embedded within the unique cabinetry system A cantilevered mezzanine positioned above the external stage space for use during theatre productions or performances. Its monolithic facade facing the terraced Amphitheatre can additionally be used as a surface for the projection of library film productions as shown.

The entry and reception of the Dance Studio positioned at the library’s platform level overlooking the dance space below.

The stepped entry leading toward the library’s central street, small platforms are placed upon either side that enable passing users to pause and view the dancers within.

Shutters concealing the telescopic theatre chairs stored beneath the spaces reception platform.

In light of Bharatanatyam’s unique characteristics - with a focus upon a linear movement of the body, bent legs and spectacular footwork - the Dance Studio at the Music Box’s base is raised one meter above ground level placing these qualities in direct view to entering library users. Through a large vertically operating stage doors at this studio’s side, the dance studio opens to an external stage where an overhanging mezzanine permits the production of theatrical performances both traditional and contemporary.

Above the Dance Studio sits the eponymous music box, that in recognition of the plethora of instruments of Carnatic and contemporary styles provides a space where all these instruments are simultaneously accessible.

Surrounded by a unique wall constructed of rosewood (the favored wood on Indian instruments ) these instruments are embedded within custom apertures designed to each instruments unique physical form; creating an inviting visual presentation of instruments that encourages users to test and explore new compositions between instruments from different styles. As well as compartments for instruments, accessible doors are hidden within this wall that lead into private music rooms positioned at the structures exterior wall. Providing space for the private practice of whilst overlooking the external landscape beyond.

Positioned upon the edge of the music room and overlooking the stage space below, a ‘control booth is placed that functions as both a recording facility for the internal music room and technical booth for performances in the stage space below.

The external stage space, with the ability to address audiences internally through telescopic seating stored beneath the spaces reception platform, and externally with an audience positioned within the terraced amphitheater embedded in the libraries parking structure.

The terraced amphitheater embedded within the libraries parking structure.

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Through a stair embedded within this wall a a gallery level is accessed that enables users to casually listen to the music from the center music space Though the technology of this unique musical wall and those within its theatre stage, the Music Box inducts both Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance into the contemporary celebration of music and dance.

Concept Sketch The music box

Exploring the design of a custom form of cabinetry match the from of the multiplicity of Caranatic Musics unique instruments and beyond. This wall would be fitted with advance recording technologies that would enable the exploration of new music styles through the company of diverse instruments

Perspective Sectional Plan of the Music Box’s wall Featuring custom cabinetry dedicated to each instrument included with additional hidden spaces for the appreciation of music privately, and passages to private recording studios for the creation of new music.

Bespoke compartments designed to the form of unique instruments

Soundproofing Insulation is sadwiched between the rosewood surfaces of the wall mitigating noise pollution between spaces.

The design additionally includes habitable spaces for the enjoyment of music privately

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THE STUDIO

Film & Co-working Cultures Kollywood Film

Concept Diagram

The technologies provided by the Studio. The space hoping to falcilitate the development of Chennais Independent film culture in providing a space where all technoligies of film production are freely accessible.

Description In recognition of Chennai’s love for cinema and the financial challenges faced by aspiring filmmakers and entrepreneurs, the studio seeks to provide all facilities and technologies necessary for the film and production of professional quality cinema.

The co-working spaces roof features a ceiling of concrete ribs and translucent marble with clerestory windows at either side inviting both filtered and direct light into the space.

An external balcony overlooking the libraries access street and external amphitheater.

The co-working spaces central atrium featuring a long collective table for use by multiple groups Private meeting spaces for work within smaller groups. These rooms feature large perimeter windows that overlook the internal and external streets at either side of the structure.

Three point studio lighting kits tripods and professional equipment mounts Professional quality studio cameras and sound recording devices White and Green Screen Backgrounds

The lower filming space is divided into two distinct volumes. The first, a large open studio rising three floors positioned the spaces western side feat; and a second, a support volume upon its eastern side featuring pre and post production spaces such as makeup and wardrobe facilities, meeting areas, conference rooms, storage spaces and private cinema for the showing of the Studio’s productions.

Above these spaces, a coworking facility is placed for use by the film studio below as well as entrepreneurs, small business’ and casual library users. This space features a voluminous communal workspace at its center with private workspaces along its perimeter, enabling its use by multiple working groups simultaneously.

The open film space enabling the construction of different sets and props for filming, external access is achieved through a large stage door facing the libraries private street.

Enabling the delivery of equipment and materials.

By providing such spaces and technologies ‘The Studio hopes to enrich the developing independent culture in Chennai’s film industry, where film can be written, shot and shown by anyone with the passion to do so.

The private cinema’s reception area, capable of hosting premier events or functions.

Office and conference rooms

A common area for use by users for formal meeting or relaxation between filming

A service pathway leading toward the ‘The Studio’ Cultural space

Makeup and wardrobe facilities for use by actors and staff for filming.

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the garden.

Cuizine & Art Cultures Tamil Brahmin Cuizine & Produce Art and Craft A double height gallery featuring an open internal volume enabling multiple formats of exhibition. The space is capped by concrete beams supporting translucent marble sheets which filter incoming light

Artist studios with dual visibility of the libraries external environment and internal street.

An extruded double story veranda creates a barrier between the kitchen and library street. Protecting internal spaces from weather and providing a sheltered pathway along the street for users.

A perforated metal platform separates the vertical garden wall from the solid construction of the library, increasing natural ventilation and the penetration of light.

A perimeter walkway upon the library’s platform level, providing a direct pathway from the libraries southern entrance to the ‘Information Well’ to the spaces east.

The vertical garden wall featuring such produce as Tamarind, Mustard Seeds, and Asafoetida, for use within classrooms. With southern winter sunlight only reaching the base of the vertical garden wall. UV lighting is integrated within the frame of the structure.

The libraries central street, including ‘otla’ (traditional platforms placed along street) that provide the opportunity for users to relax within the street as well as a space for the same of different library materials

The cafe counter with an open kitchen design inviting users to view the preparation and cooking of different foods.

Between the bordering walls of the platform level, low tables enable users so sit and enjoy food with visibility of the internal garden wall and exterior street scape

The dedicated entrance to the to the Libraries cafe, integrated within the column structure of the platform level

Small perimeter pools cool southern breezes as they enter the space.

Additionally humidifying the air for the benefit of the vertical garden.

Concept Sketch

The design was principally created through the development of it’s section, exploring the distribution of spaces to ensure the accessibility of technologies to spaces as well as achieving favourable environmental qualities.

Description Attempting to re-establish the traditional relationship toward food of the region - where the Tamil Brahmin would look to their adorning kitchen garden for ingredients toward cooking (Mohandras. 2009)– The design of ‘The Garden’ utilizes the current technology of vertical agriculture and aquaponics to provide the opportunity for the growth and cooking of different produce within the library.

The design features a large vertical garden that bisects the space; with two levels of kitchen classrooms positioned upon its internal side. These classrooms feature an entire wall open to the vertical garden allowing users to quickly consult the wall for a variety of different ingredients to be used within cooking.

The material composition of these kitchens utilizes those commonly found within traditional Tamil homes, with oxide flooring, Sal wood louvred shutters, and madras styled terrace roofing.

This creates and interesting juxtaposition against the advanced garden wall that establishes a relationship between the regions past and the innovative new way of making food Above this space an art studio and gallery is placed; taking advantage of the favorable southern sunlight and breezes to introduce a relaxing atmosphere for users during work. The art studio - positioned between the vertical garden and above art gallery - features interesting views into the library’s internal street and voluminous cafe atrium.- with an internal balcony providing views of the libraries street - and a sectional cut through the barrel vault of the cafe’s atrium that enables views into the café below and environment beyond.

Axonometric Diagram

Detailing the materiality of the kitchen classrooms that create a juxtaposition between traditional and future spaces

‘Madras

terrace’ roofing

Operable sal wood shutters A concrete bench integrated into the structures wall Red oxide flooring Vertical garden with integrated aquaponic watering and suppotive uv lighting Perforated aluminum platform improving ventilation and lighting

The southern entrance to the library’s central street

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MAKE- the - SPACE Craft, Design & Making Cultures

Concept Sketch

Exploring the relationship between the indivigual structural systems of the composite design and the potential arrngements of internal spaes and passage of services.

Art and Craft Digital Design and Making The barrier between the internal and external structures additionally allows for the passage of services and materials between floors.

A potential configuration of internal spaces, with large featuring expansive openings at the spaces center allowing visibility and interaction between floors.

The vertical circulation and services spaces are positioned upon the east and western facades of the structure.

Creating a clear open floor plan for the interior technology spaces.

The principle supports of the internal truss system, Large steel beams and columns that provide complete freedom to the internal truss system.

With void between the structural supports of the brick superstructure, users upon the library’s street are granted visibility of the workshop facility below A service pathway leading toward the ‘The Studio’ Cultural space

An enclosed internal workshop positioned beneath the library street, that including unique machinery operable only to proficient craftsmen

Description The ever-accelerating rate of technologic development creates a unique challenge within the design of public libraries - with predicting which innovations are likely to become of importance to a libraries functional or spacial development becoming an increasingly greater challenge for architects than ever before.

(Watson, 2013).

The ‘Maker-the-Space’ dedicated to design and craft in all its forms - including technologies evolving and those of significance to the city’s past – attempts to navigate this challenge. Creating a single built form where all mediums of making can exist harmoniously, with the ability to adapt and respond to all those unseen in the future.

The design does this through the integration of a composite system of construction, with an exterior brick superstructure enclosing a timber truss system within. The external brick structure with great mass and rigidity acts as a kind of protective veil, mitigating the penetration of harsh solar rays and destructive monsoonal winds, granting complete freedom to the internal timber truss system that constructed of local materials is easily manipulable through basic structural knowledge.

This creating a space that can adapt and respond to evolving technologies and desires of users.

Isometric Diagram

A modular unit of the interior system of construction. This enabling the simple manipulation of internal spaces to different designs depending upon fuctional program and technology.

Modular units of the truss system can be easily joined to additional units permitting multiple floor arrangements within the space Void space created by the structural lattice provides space for use of different services that can be easily altered or manipulated The timber truss system enabling simple disassembly and multiple floor arrangements

The ground floor workshop with direct access to the adjoining street allowing delivery of large scale materials for use in construction projects

The principle loading zone of the library that services both the workshop and library staff space positioned upon its opposite side.

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The n o i t a m r info Well

Literature & Library Cultures

Concept Sketch The Stepwell

Concept sketches exploring the construction and design of the proposed stepwell concept.

Library Culture Literature A recessed roof of concrete cross beams supporting translucent marble sheets caps the atrium space. Filtering the harsh tropical sunlight as it enters the library creating a comfortable internal atmosphere for study and reading.

The Reading Room positioned above the roof lines of the library’s adjacent buildings. Large double glazed floor to ceiling windows provide an uninterrupted view of the surrounding urban area allowing users to appreciate the diverse built scape of Georgetown in a single glance.

The terraced study platform featuring long curved study tables for the individual study of library users.

The curved design provides greater privacy toward individual users as well as greater visibility down its bordering Armenian street.

The operable sal wood shutter facade providing privacy to users from the external street and mitigating internal solar penetration Private study rooms are positioned beneath the study platform above.

Small windows provide views of exterior spaces A perimeter walkway, enclosing the Private study rooms at the terrace platforms base, enabling close engagement with the facade and external built landscape The monumental curved library stack with adjacent spiraling stair providing access and navigation to higher spaces. It’s stair features small platforms inspired by Indian stairs enabling users to pause and engage with the collection.

A curved screen attached to the structural columns of the hemispherical atrium space, enabling lectures to be performed toward the adjacent architectural stair.

An architectural stair with large open platforms providing space for the informal study and gathering of library users.

The library’s public grassed forecourt overlooking the streetscape below.

A communal study space dedicated toward the special and reserve collections.

The remaining facade of the former Binny Mills Offices that inhabited the site prior, reused as the facade of the special and children’s collection The special collection located at the center of the ground floor level, housing ancient Tamil and Sanskrit text.

The libraries principle public storage space, used for chappels (Indian Sandals) and personal belongings

Description Reclaiming the stack as the ultimate symbol of knowledge to the library, ‘the information well’ through both design and technology acts as mediator between the real and virtual.

Inspired by the Indian step-well (Refer to project sketchbook in appendix), the collection takes the form of a monumental curved stack that envelops half of the library’s main atrium. Spiraling paths follow its curvature providing access to items whilst ascending to higher spaces; with evenly distributed platforms positioned at its edge enabling users to stop and review items.

Within this wall, innovative technologies exist that respond dynamically to the presence of inquisitive users. Through the creation of a dedicated library app where users can register their desired search items or interested topics, RFID (radio-frequency identification) technologies within the stack sense a user’s proximity through their mobile device stimulating the dynamic flash of LED lights embedded within the stack that guides users to respective item of search.

This not only creates a serendipitous way of searching books but provides a ‘constellation of knowledge’ to surrounding users.

By additionally illuminating as a response to the collection being accessed virtually through the online catalogue, a greater understanding of the interests of users throughout Chennai is represented visually within the library.

Isometric Diagram

The final stepwell design, creating an entirely unique method of navigating the collection inspired by the unique architecture and cultural practices of the site.

The internal divider of the stack consists of an led light sheet sandwiched between two perforated aluminum sheets.

As users move in proximity to the stack, the led light sheet responds guiding users to items of interest. The perforated design additionally provides partial visibility through the stack improiving internal lighting an ventialtion throughout the library

Peripheral private study rooms

Accessible from its rear landing at each level of the library A user updating their search inquiry via the libraries desicated app. Loanable devices are offered at the libraries reception for users with personal devices A perforated aluminum sheet platform supported via 4600mm spaced 150ub cross beams The curved 360UB beam is supported via the internal brick pillars of the libraries atrium

The principle reception point of the library, directly accessible from the libraries main entrance. The reception overlooks the special collection at its back improving the security of the collection.

The principle entrance of the Library.

A voluminous space punctured by thick brick columns that establishes a sense prestige toward the oncoming spaces of the library The library staff and service space located at a central position of the library complex with direct access to the libraries loading bay and service pathways to the libraries other unique spaces.

The Children’s Library featuring a low mountable stack along its perimeter wall, raising children to window level to engage directly with the street.

A private door leads out to an artificial hill-scape integrated into the dilapidated remains of the Binny Mills facade, providing an outdoor area for children to play.

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75 Banyan trees, the national tree of India, enabling users to engage in study in a natural space externally

Conclusion This thesis explores the potential integration of culture and technology within the design of the modern public library as a means to provide legibility and relevance to traditional cultures in developing societies. In doing so it begins to rethink the ways in which designers integrate modern technologies within design and demonstrates the potential benefits in drawing inspiration from the traditions and cultures of society.

Exploring multiple approaches through the five unique spaces designed, rather than a definitive solution, this thesis intends to create a platform for conversation breeding greater discourse upon culture driven design in the future.

Additional to introducing traditional to technology, within district moments (the information well as an example) this thesis stimulates thought regarding the potential introduction of culture to the navigation of online ‘digital spaces’. This awakening an entire new field of discussion where architectural design transcends beyond the physical environment.

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78 TWO WHEELER ACCESS RAMP

PERSONAL STORE

TWO WHEELER PARKING

AUTOMATED PARKING SERVICE ENTRY

TWO WHEELER ACCESS RAMP

STACK PARKING ENTRY

STACK PARKING WAITING CUE

PARKING ATTENDANTS STATION

AUTOMATED VERTICAL STACK PARKING

TWO WHEELER PARKING

USER ENTRY/EXIT

OUTDOOR AMPHITHEATER

OUTDOOR AMPHITHEATRE

AUTOMATED VERTICAL STACK PARKING

SEMI OUTDOOR THEATRE STAGE

DANCE STUDIO SPACE

OPEN GRASSED SPACE

VERTICALLY OPERABLE WALL

DANCE STUDIO

VOID

TELESCOPIC THEATRE SEATS

ST.

ST.

FEMALE BATHROOM

MALE BATHROOM

ST.

ACC. WC.

FEMALE BATHROOM

ACC. WC.

MALE BATHROOM

VOID

WARDROBE

CHANGEROOM & MAKEUP

RS.

COMMON AREA

RS.

CAFETERIA ENTRY

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INCLUDING METAL AND MASONRY SHOP EQUIPMENT THAT REQUIRE QUALIFIED OBSERVATION

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT WORKSHOP

PUBLIC WORKSHOPS

RS.

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CAFETERIA PREP

INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC LIFT

COMMUNITY KITCHEN PREP

KITCHEN PREP

LOADING ZONE

OPERATES TO SERVE POOR AND DISADVANTAGED COMMUNITY MEMBERS. SERVING USERS OUTSIDE THE LIBRARY WHO MAY FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE ENTERING

ST.

ST.

ST.

ST.

RECEPTION AND BOOKING DESK

STUDIO ENTRY AND CIRCULATION SPACE

LIBRARY STUDIO ENTRY FOYER

COMMON AREA

CONFERENCE ROOM

LIBRARY ENTRY

ASS. WC.

MALE BATHROOM

STORAGE

STORAGE AND SERVICES

ASS. WC.

FEMALE BATHROOM

ASS. WC.

'OTLA' FOR MEETING AND RELAXATION

CAFE SPACE

CULTURAL COOKING CLASSROOM

'OTLA' FOR MEETING AND RELAXATION

BANYAN TREES

PERIMETER ACCESS PATH

'OTLA' FOR MEETING AND RELAXATION

LIBRARY STREET

'OTLA' FOR MEETING AND RELAXATION

PUBLIC WORKSHOPS BELOW

INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC LIFT

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OPEN GRASSED SPACE

VERTICALLY OPERABLE WALL

LIBRARY STUDIO SPACE

SEMI OUTDOOR THEATRE STAGE

STUDIO SPACE

COMMON AREA

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STACK PARKING EXIT

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CHAPPALS AND PERSONAL STORAGE SPACE

ENTRANCE LOBBY

CHAPPALS AND PERSONAL STORAGE SPACE

AFTERHOURS RETURNS

COLLECTION SORTING & RETURN

STORE

CHILDREN'S LIBRARY/ DISABLED ENTRANCE

ASS. WC.

RECEPTION AND RETURNS DESK

ASS. WC.

RECEPTION DESK

ACC. WC.

CHILDENS INFORMATION DESK

CHILDRENS BATHROOM

CHILDRENS LIBRARY

MAGAZINES AND PERIODICALS

BI-FOLD SECURITY PANELS

USER MEETING AND RELAXATION SPACE

SPEACIAL COLLECTIONS STUDY SPACE

GROUND (BASE) FLOOR PLAN

DF.

SPEACIAL COLLECTIONS STUDY SPACE

5m

PLATFORM (PODIUM) FLOOR PLAN

FEMALE

MALE

5m

FEMALE BATHROOM

SPECIAL COLLECTIONS

MALE BATHROOM

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UNDERCOVER SPACE

AUTOMATED PARKING SERVICE ENTRY

TWO WHEELER ACCESS RAMP

TWO WHEELER PARKING

AUTOMATED PARKING SERVICE ENTRY

AUTOMATED VERTICAL STACK PARKING

AUTOMATED VERTICAL STACK PARKING

VOID

OUTDOOR AMPHITHEATER

OUTDOOR AMPHITHEATER

OUTDOOR SPACE

MEETING ROOM/ WORK SPACE

MEETING ROOM/ WORK SPACE

THEATRE MEZZANINE

VOID

VOID

MEETING ROOM/ WORK SPACE

CO-WORKING SPACE

MEETING ROOM/ WORK SPACE

TERRACED SEATING

RECORDING STUDIO

RECORDING STUDIO

THE MUSIC BOX

RECORDING STUDIO

RECORDING STUDIO

ASS. WC.

RECEPTION

ASS. WC.

ASS. WC.

VOID

INFORMAL MEETING SPACE

PRIVATE SCREENING FOYER

VOID

CULTURAL COOKING CLASSROOM

FEMALE BATHROOM

MALE BATHROOM

DESIGN LAB

CULTURAL COOKING CLASSROOM

INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC LIFT

MUSIC NICHE

MUSIC NICHE

MEETING ROOM/ WORK SPACE

MEETING ROOM/ WORK SPACE

VOID

MUSIC NICHE

SMALL KITCHNETTE/ LOUNGE

COMMON AREA

FEMALE BATHROOM

MALE BATHROOM

COMMON ACCESS PATH

VOID

ARTISTS STUDIOS

VOID

DESIGN LAB

RECEPTION

INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC LIFT

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COMMS ROOM

RECORDING STUDIO/ BIOBOX

RECORDING STUDIO

ASS. WC.

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GROUP WORKSPACE

GROUP WORKSPACE

VOID

GROUP WORKSPACE

ST.

ST.

ASS. WC.

ASS. WC.

ASS. WC.

STAIR WORKSPACE

ASS. WC.

5m

FEMALE BATHROOM

MALE BATHROOM

CURVED PROJECTION SCREEN

5m

FEMALE BATHROOM

MALE BATHROOM

GROUP STUDY

GROUP STUDY

GROUP STUDY

SECOND FLOOR PLAN

GROUP STUDY

GROUP STUDY

FIRST FLOOR PLAN

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FEMALE BATHROOM

MALE BATHROOM

ASS. WC.

ASS. WC.

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ART GALLERY

GROUP WORKSPACE

INDUSTRIAL HYDRAULIC LIFT

GROUP WORKSPACE

ASS. WC.

ASS. WC.

VOID

DESIGN LAB

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FOURTH FLOOR PLAN

GROUP STUDY

GROUP STUDY

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COMMUNAL STUDY SPACE

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ASS. WC.

FEMALE BATHROOM

MALE BATHROOM

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Carr, David Paul. 2015. “Bibliothèque Nationale de France.” Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau. https://en.parisinfo.com/paris-museum-monument/71301/Bibliotheque-Nationale-de-France-Site-Richelieu-Louvois Christopher, A. 2013. “Mint Street” Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/bonevlion/9056932301 Castells, Manuel, and Ida Susser. 2002 “The Castells reader on cities and social theory.” Malden, Massachusetts: Blackwell Publishers CMDA . 2010. “Heritage Building List”. W.P. No. 25306/2006. Chennai, Tamil Nadu: CMDA http://www.cmdachennai.gov.in/pdfs/officeorders/heritage_ buildings_list.pdf CMDA. 2017. “REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) for CONSULTANCY ASSIGNMENT FIRMS” Chennai. CMDA. Cooper, James G. “Michelangelo’s Laurentian Library Corporation of Chennai.(n.d.) “Armenian Street” Mapio. https://mapio.net/s/72941646/ Curtis, William. (1988). “Balkrishna Doshi. An Architecture for India” Ahmedabad: Mapin Publishing PVT. LTD. Davinci School of Design and Architecture. 2013. “Georgetown: Urban Design”. Chennai. Davinci School of Design and Architecture.

“Description of Bharatanatyam.” 2008. Rangashree Dances of India. http://rangashree.org/bharatanatyam-description.html Design of Library Buildings - Recommendations Relating To Its Primary Elements 1992. New Dehli: Bureau of Indian Standards.

Desogus, Aurelio. 2016. Openbare Bibliotheek. Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/auredeso/32292819652/ Dijkstra, Rients. 2010.The architecture of knowledge: De architectuur van kennis: de bibliotheek van de toekomst: the library of the future. NAi Uitgevers Diliff. 2015. “The Interior of Duke.” Wikimedia Commons. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Diliff Doshi, Bakrishna. (2015). “Perceptions of a Smart City”. Interview Notes.

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88

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89

90 Introducing users to the library and facilitaing their circulation to its many facilities, these spaces are the fundamental toward the communication of the libraries identity and culture.

In this way, they serve both a practical and symbolic purpose; to ensure the efficient navigation toward and operation of the facilities of the library; and to symbolically represent the culture and tradition of the library within and that of its surrounding local contextxx.

Common Ammenity

Georgetown Super Library

Information and reception

Entrance Foyer

20

NA

30,000

Users Total

1000

Approx 1300

BREIFED AREA (m2)

Upper Floors

AREA NAME

5

1

20

NA

5300

4000

1300

TOTAL BREIFED AREA (m2)

Occupancy 500 from anna/3

4

1

No.

Appendix

91

(Savatier, Tristan. “Cow and indian woman in narrow street” 2013.

Digital Image. Reproduced from Loupiote.)

A Narrow street in the city of Varanasi, these streets disect urban blocks providing access to internal compounds.

(Christopher, A. “Mint Street” 2013. Digital Image. Reproduced from Flickr)

A photograph of Mint Street. Information and reception points are to be integrated in design in a similar manner to the sinage advertised by stores.

Quality PRELIMINARY - Easily identifiable from each of the library facilities entries, with good lighting and signage to attract users attention.

- Considering this thesis’ objective to integrate innovative technologies, it is important that the information desk adequtely prepare users for the experience of the library, providing an introductory experience that is clear, efficient and can deal with predicted user traffic.

DEVELOPED - The information and reception points are to be visually accessible from the ‘street’ level of the library as to avoid any social exclusion that could result from its placement internally. Its apperance is to resemble signage common to the area, as to blend in with the surrounding streets.

Layout and Dimensioning Positioned as to not interfere with foot traffic of the entrance or circulation spaces allowing groups to gather without creating an obstacle.

An adaptable layout that can evolve with the changing needs of the library with the ability to facilitate different functions the library may host.

Equipment Equipped with a reception counter, computer terminals for users to access library information, a plan of the library and directory board. The form Adjacencies In proximity of the entrance and loan return for the assistance of incoming users.

Easily assessible from vertical circulation pathways for the assistance of users during their exprience of the library

(Corporation of Chennai.

“Armenian Street” Digital Image.

Reproduced from Mapio)

A photograph down Armenian Street with the proposed building site pictured right in place of the now demolished Binny Mills Headquarters. The entrance is proposed as an extension of the existing system of streets.

Quality PRELIMINARY - The gateway of the library, the entrance gate must be easily identifiable from the structures exterior. This being achieved through a visibly bold design, with the incorporation of urban furniture and informational signage giving it a welcoming apperance.

DEVELOPED - The intention of the entrance is to be perceived as a continuation of the street, aligning with its geometry and establishing a sense of belonging to the district. In acknowledgement of caste exclusion, the entrance is to have no signage or obvious door, gate or barrier, removing any quality of privelge and welcoming all without fear of social persecution. Its identification as a library is instead achieved by virtue of its inhabitatntion, with patrons and its collection visable through the expansive openings of the louevred. The entrance should provide a long telescopic view of the central circulation space, revealing the throng of people navigating between the libraries various facilities.

Layout and Dimensioning The architectural layout being clear logical; making it easy for users to see how oncoming spaces are distributed within the library and allowing staff full visibility of the area.

This achieved through long visual corridors that penetrate deep within the library.

A secondary entrance for children and staff to avoid the disturbance of older users by children and to not negatively effect the atmosphere of the library for different users.

Equipment To be weather proof, negating wind or rain from entering the libraries envelope when accessed Security/reception desks are placed at the entrances of different library spaces that are not of an overly obtrusive visual precence Adjacencies Must be in proximity to the reception, information areas and central circulation space of the library Be convienently accessed from building parking and public transit services.

DESCRIPTION/NOTES

Principle Circulation Space

BREIFED AREA (m2)

BK City of Delft, Netherlands.

(Ragen, M. “Niche” 2016.

Digital Image. Reproduced from 123RF)

5 2 25

80 (40 pp)

No.

2

TOTAL BREIFED AREA (m2)

160

The edge of a traditional Mandapa.

Quality PRELIMINARY - Providing access to all libraries facilities, the principle circulation space must be of an open and spacious layout appreciating the expected foot traffic of the space and providing visual access to the libraries multiple spaces.

- To be of a visually distinct design and providing orientation to users within the library when entering and exiting different library spaces.

DEVELOPED - The conceptual ‘street’, the circulation space is to be of a long linear design that bissects all of the library facilties. Providing access to these spaces via entries poisitioned at its sides in a manner similar to that found in adjacent streets of Georgetown.

-The circulation space additionally bissects the structure vertically culminating in an open ceiling that maintings the spaces atmosphere as a continuation of the street and its identity as a public space accessible to all.

-Ledges and ‘otla’ (open platforms for public use) are positioned along the street between the entry points of library spaces, providing opportunities for users to relax and congregate as well as offering informal retail opportunities for the sale of products relative to the libraries use.

- A secondary circulation space is positioned two floors above at the intersection between library spaces vertically. Accessed via stairwells and elevators positioned at the libraries entry gate and junction points between spaces, as well as the internal circulation points within each of the libraries spaces. This circulation space wraps the structures perimeter proividing visual access to library spaces internally as well as expansive views of surrounding streets externally. This space is again of an open ceilinged design identifying the space as public with urban furniture enabling respite and relaxation.

Layout and Dimensioning The architectural layout being clear and logical; making it easy for users to see how oncoming spaces are distributed throughout the structure and allowing staff full visibility of the area. This being achieved through the open ceiling design and long visual corridors that penetrate library spaces as the space is navigated.

Equipment Signage located adjacent entries that identify library spaces and providing direction to surrounding spaces.

Urban furniture in the form of ‘otla’ and steps that are culturally significant to India and found within adjacent streets.

Adjacencies Both bissecting and enveloping the space, the circulation spaces provide access to all of the libraries facilites.

Equipment - Lockers of a variety of different sizes for the secure storage of personal belongings.

- Open compartments for the storage of footwear of users while accessing internal spaces. These compartments being organised vertically to prevent the piling of footwear on flooring as well as ensuring their efficient return when leaving the space Adjacencies - Positioned in view of security checkpoints preventing the theft of users belonging.

- The principle storage space is to be positioned centrally within the library providing the greatest accessibility to all library spaces.

- Secondary storage spaces are to be placed near the access points of each library space, located at the libraries street level.

Description PRELIMINARY - For the short term use of small groups of users or companies, Co working spaces are designed to create a comfortable and engaging internal space which adequately seperates users from the noise and distrction of adjacent spaces - Comfortably furnished with adequate access to utilities and outlets for the use of personal electonics.

- The ability to operate on an independant timetable disconnected from the daily function of the library. However still connected to the library for the access of library materials that may be needed.

- An adaptable design with the ability to compartmentalize or unite as a single space. Facilitating large functions or small meetings Layout and Dimensioning An open layout enabling the greatest variety of on internal arrangements of furniture.

Equipment - Modular tables for group work sessions - Movable screens for projections and other audiovisual equipment - Flexible and directional lighting - Storage spaces for furniture and the persoanl belongings of users.

- A private bathroom for use during private conferences.

Adjacencies - Easy access to the libraries circulation spaces. Providing access to the libraries facilities as may be required by internal users.

(Ragen, M. “Niche” 2016.

Digital Image. Reproduced from 123RF)

A Traditional Niche of found within Dehli feating traditional shapes recessed within the walls material.

Description PRELIMINARY - For the short term use of small groups of users or companies, Co working spaces are designed to create a comfortable and engaging internal space which adequately seperates users from the noise and distrction of adjacent spaces - Comfortably furnished with adequate access to utilities and outlets for the use of personal electonics.

- The ability to operate on an independant timetable disconnected from the daily function of the library. However still connected to the library for the access of library materials that may be needed.

- An adaptable design with the ability to compartmentalize or unite as a single space. Facilitating large functions or small meetings Layout and Dimensioning An open layout enabling the greatest variety of on internal arrangements of furniture.

Equipment - Modular tables for group work sessions - Movable screens for projections and other audiovisual equipment - Flexible and directional lighting - Storage spaces for furniture and the persoanl belongings of users.

- A private bathroom for use during private conferences.

Adjacencies - Easy access to the libraries circulation spaces. Providing access to the libraries facilities as may be required by internal users.

BK City of Delft, Netherlands.

(Ragen, M. “Niche” 2016.

Digital Image. Reproduced from 123RF)

Quality PRELIMINARY - Providing access to all libraries facilities, the principle circulation space must be of an open and spacious layout appreciating the expected foot traffic of the space and providing visual access to the libraries multiple spaces.

- To be of a visually distinct design and providing orientation to users within the library when entering and exiting different library spaces.

DEVELOPED - The conceptual ‘street’, the circulation space is to be of a long linear design that bissects all of the library facilties. Providing access to these spaces via entries poisitioned at its sides in a manner similar to that found in adjacent streets of Georgetown.

-The circulation space additionally bissects the structure vertically culminating in an open ceiling that maintings the spaces atmosphere as a continuation of the street and its identity as a public space accessible to all.

-Ledges and ‘otla’ (open platforms for public use) are positioned along the street between the entry points of library spaces, providing opportunities for users to relax and congregate as well as offering informal retail opportunities for the sale of products relative to the libraries use.

- A secondary circulation space is positioned two floors above at the intersection between library spaces vertically. Accessed via stairwells and elevators positioned at the libraries entry gate and junction points between spaces, as well as the internal circulation points within each of the libraries spaces. This circulation space wraps the structures perimeter proividing visual access to library spaces internally as well as expansive views of surrounding streets externally. This space is again of an open ceilinged design identifying the space as public with urban furniture enabling respite and relaxation.

Layout and Dimensioning The architectural layout being clear and logical; making it easy for users to see how oncoming spaces are distributed throughout the structure and allowing staff full visibility of the area. This being achieved through the open ceiling design and long visual corridors that penetrate library spaces as the space is navigated.

Equipment Signage located adjacent entries that identify library spaces and providing direction to surrounding spaces.

Urban furniture in the form of ‘otla’ and steps that are culturally significant to India and found within adjacent streets.

Adjacencies Both bissecting and enveloping the space, the circulation spaces provide access to all of the libraries facilites.

Equipment - Lockers of a variety of different sizes for the secure storage of personal belongings.

- Open compartments for the storage of footwear of users while accessing internal spaces. These compartments being organised vertically to prevent the piling of footwear on flooring as well as ensuring their efficient return when leaving the space Adjacencies - Positioned in view of security checkpoints preventing the theft of users belonging.

- The principle storage space is to be positioned centrally within the library providing the greatest accessibility to all library spaces.

- Secondary storage spaces are to be placed near the access points of each library space, located at the libraries street level.

DESCRIPTION/NOTES

Recommendations PRELIMINARY - The design of all storage spaces being consistant, establishing a vocabulary users can clearly indentify and locate.

DEVELOPED - Appreciating the Indian custom of removing ones footwear when entering internal spaces. ‘Chapals’ (an open toed sandal) and personal storage spaces are of a visually distinct design that is clearly identifiable when approaching the entrances of different library spaces.

Layout and Dimensioning - Of an open and logical layout, with an approriately wide access point appreciating the expected foot traffic of the space.

(Santos-Diez, H. “Baiona Library” 2017. Digital Image.

Reproduced from muradoelvira.com)

Niche Seats of the Baiona Public Library. A renewal of a 17th Century building, these Niche seats are positioned within the deteriorating voids of the original building.

Providing unique views and spaces for interation, they seemlessly blend with the historic character of the space.

Quality GENERAL -A comfortable and inviting space, acting as a meeting point for groups of incoming users. The space therefore must be easily identifiable from the entrace using furnititure to draw the users attention. The space must provide users with interesting vistas whilst waiting. These vistas being of the internal spaces of the library as well its exterior.

Acoustic treatment is encouraged to reduce both the entry and exit of sound from groups. This being achieved through furnishings or the material treatment of surrounding surfaces.

- Multiple forms of this space are to be distributed throughout the library ensuring that spaces are provided for all regardless of caste or social position. The form and design of these spaces are to integrate with the ‘circulation street’, naturally blending in with the space.

- These are to be based upon culturally significant forms such as the traditional open platforms known as ‘otla’ bordering the bordering indian streets, and niched spaces recessed within the walls of ancient palaces and temples.

Layout and Dimensioning Positioned as to not interfere with foot traffic. Allowing groups to gather without creating an obstacle Furniture is used to define the layout of this space; including spaces for individual users to larger groups that encourage quiet relaxation and exchange respectively.

Equipment Tables, chairs, and lounges encouraging user exchange and dicussion.

Adjacencies Located on the perimeter of the entrance foyer as to not obstruct navigation pathways.

In proximity to a toilets

DESCRIPTION/NOTES

(Volwahsen, A. 1969.

“Kandariua Mahadeo Tempe”1969. “Living Architecture: India”.

Image. Reproduced from Living Architecture: India

These spaces complement the reading and documentation services of the library with the primary objectives of encouraging dialogue between library users and bringing books closer to cultural activites.

This establishing a sense of creativity throughout the library.

The sloped reading room of the Seashore Library by Vector Architects.

160

(Bin, He. “Seashore Library” 2015. Digital Image. Reproduced from Archdaily)

2

AREA NAME

Quality PRELIMINARY Containing culturally significant works in tamil, jain and sanskrit, it is important for this space to reflect its items cultural significance andvalue. This both through a clear architectural representation of culture in material and form, and a design that showcases the collection in a grand fashion. This taking the form of a centrally position enclosed collection Layout and Dimensioning As the items are unloanable and for presentation over use, the layout of this collection can must be arranged to minimize the precense of blindspots from the viewing position of the spaces security and reception desk.

Equipment Shelving and lockable display cases Informal reference areas with comfortable seating for passive users Digitally based catalougue reference points Staff assistance points Adjacencies A central location within the library symbolizing the importance of its collection Connected to the general collection however still identifying as an solated entity.

80 (40 pp)

Quality An adaptable space able to facilitate groups of a variety of sizes. The ability to create a variety of different layouts to facilitate different forms of group work Layout and Dimensioning The ability to create a variety of different layouts to facilitate different forms of group work. The potential to additionally compartmentalize this space enabling multiple groups to use at once Equipment GPU and ethernet ports Movable chairs and desks Projectors and audio visual equipment Adjacencies Easily accessible from the general collection.

In proximity of multifunction and lecture spaces.

Indicidual Co-working Spaces

Indicidual Co-working Spaces

DESCRIPTION/NOTES

25

Quality PRELIMINARY An adaptable space able to facilitate groups of a variety of sizes. The ability to create a variety of different layouts to facilitate different forms of group work - Like individual study spaces these again must be on a relaxing and comforting design, achieved by an appropriate material composition, access to natrual lighting, and providing external views of external spaces and nature.

Layout and Dimensioning The ability to create a variety of different layouts to facilitate different forms of group work. The potential to additionally compartmentalize this space enabling multiple groups to use at once Equipment GPU and ethernet ports Movable chairs and desks Projectors and audio visual equipment Adjacencies Easily accessible from the general collection.

350

2

Promotion & Activity Spaces TOTAL BREIFED AREA (m2)

5

Quality PRELIMINARY - For quiet individual study, it is important for these spaces be of a relaxing and comforting design. This being achieved by an appropriate material composition, access to natrual lighting, and providing external views of external spaces and nature.

- These spaces can physically seperate users into indidual cubicles or encourage individual study through the orietation of furniture and spacial design.

DEVELOPED These spaces have the opportunity to explore culturally significant design and integration of innovative technologies. With particular reference to the spacial technique of the Mandapa, and the long collective study tables common within current public libraries.

Layout and Dimensioning Evenly distributed giving an occupant the maximum amount of free space possible Equipment GPU and ethernet ports Chair and desk Adjacencies Easily accessible from the general collection and group study rooms.

600

1

Principle Circulation Space

350

1350

50

TOTAL BREIFED AREA (m2)

The activity of these spaces are central toward the libraries communication of culture and tradition toward the local community.

No.

25

1

450

The activity of these spaces are central toward the libraries communication of culture and tradition toward the local community.

No.

5

‘Chappas’ (footwear) / Personal Storage

These spaces complement the reading and documentation services of the library with the primary objectives of encouraging dialogue between library users and bringing books closer to cultural activites.

This establishing a sense of creativity throughout the library.

BREIFED AREA (m2)

10

The New York Times Company, The Seattle Library check-out. 2004, Digital Image. Reproduced from: The New York Tomes

Exploring the potential of the the loan return being used as a performative device within the library.

Recommendations PRELIMINARY - Easily identifiable from the entrance, with good lighting and signage to attract users attention.

- Access for staff must be efficient with a seemless sequence designed for an items processing and return to the collection.

- An external loan return is to also be included for use when the library is closed.

Layout and Dimensioning Positioned as to not interfere with surrounding foot traffic allowing users to pause and load items.

It is encouraged that the layout enables books to be returned in a manner that does not disturb users.

Equipment A loan counter with an accompanying staff working space.

Shelves for the temporary deposit of returned mateial Adjacencies In proximity of the entrance and loan return for the assistance of incoming users.

Placed at all entries for the convinience of users.

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12

(1.5/1000 inhab.)

BREIFED AREA (m2)

2

NA

User Meeting and Relaxation

10

DESCRIPTION/NOTES

(200/m2) 150

12

Collection mimimum (30,000) 350m2

AREA NAME

2

10

Loan Return

TOTAL BREIFED AREA (m2)

AREA NAME

5

No.

RECOMMENDED AREA (m2)

AREA NAME

Specialized/ Historical Collection

Reading Room

Promotion & Activity Spaces

92 Study Cubicles

Group Study Rooms

93

The fundamental spaces of the library encompassing approximately 50% of its footprint.

General Areas

94 95

12

12

Reading Room

3

(1.5/1000 inhab.)

(200/m2) 150

Collection mimimum (30,000) 350m2

BREIFED AREA (m2)

(Doc/inhab.) 1 (60% of stock) 180,000 (200 per m2) 900

80

BREIFED AREA (m2)

Group Study Rooms

Study Cubicles

Specialized/ Historical Collection

AREA NAME

General Collection

Multifunction/Group CoWorking Space

AREA NAME

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450

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1

2

No.

350

600

1350

350

TOTAL BREIFED AREA (m2)

350

160

TOTAL BREIFED AREA (m2)

1

2

3

4

4

(Fiederer, L. “Stockholm Public Library” 2010. Digital Image.

Reproduced from Archdaily)

(Fiederer, L. “Stockholm Public Library” 2010. Digital Image.

Reproduced from Archdaily)

(Bin, He. “Seashore Library” 2015. Digital Image. Reproduced from Archdaily)

The sloped reading room of the Seashore Library by Vector Architects.

(Volwahsen, A. 1969.

“Kandariua Mahadeo Tempe”1969. “Living Architecture: India”.

Image. Reproduced from Living Architecture: India

The edge of a traditional Mandapa.

Quality An adaptable space able to facilitate groups of a variety of sizes. The ability to create a variety of different layouts to facilitate different forms of group work Layout and Dimensioning The ability to create a variety of different layouts to facilitate different forms of group work. The potential to additionally compartmentalize this space enabling multiple groups to use at once Equipment GPU and ethernet ports Movable chairs and desks Projectors and audio visual equipment Adjacencies Easily accessible from the general collection.

In proximity of multifunction and lecture spaces.

Quality PRELIMINARY An adaptable space able to facilitate groups of a variety of sizes. The ability to create a variety of different layouts to facilitate different forms of group work - Like individual study spaces these again must be on a relaxing and comforting design, achieved by an appropriate material composition, access to natrual lighting, and providing external views of external spaces and nature.

Layout and Dimensioning The ability to create a variety of different layouts to facilitate different forms of group work. The potential to additionally compartmentalize this space enabling multiple groups to use at once Equipment GPU and ethernet ports Movable chairs and desks Projectors and audio visual equipment Adjacencies Easily accessible from the general collection.

Quality PRELIMINARY - For quiet individual study, it is important for these spaces be of a relaxing and comforting design. This being achieved by an appropriate material composition, access to natrual lighting, and providing external views of external spaces and nature.

- These spaces can physically seperate users into indidual cubicles or encourage individual study through the orietation of furniture and spacial design.

DEVELOPED These spaces have the opportunity to explore culturally significant design and integration of innovative technologies. With particular reference to the spacial technique of the Mandapa, and the long collective study tables common within current public libraries.

Layout and Dimensioning Evenly distributed giving an occupant the maximum amount of free space possible Equipment GPU and ethernet ports Chair and desk Adjacencies Easily accessible from the general collection and group study rooms.

Quality PRELIMINARY Containing culturally significant works in tamil, jain and sanskrit, it is important for this space to reflect its items cultural significance andvalue. This both through a clear architectural representation of culture in material and form, and a design that showcases the collection in a grand fashion. This taking the form of a centrally position enclosed collection Layout and Dimensioning As the items are unloanable and for presentation over use, the layout of this collection can must be arranged to minimize the precense of blindspots from the viewing position of the spaces security and reception desk.

Equipment Shelving and lockable display cases Informal reference areas with comfortable seating for passive users Digitally based catalougue reference points Staff assistance points Adjacencies A central location within the library symbolizing the importance of its collection Connected to the general collection however still identifying as an solated entity.

DESCRIPTION/NOTES

Stack Diagram

1350

1800

The circular collection of the Stockholm Public Library by Gunnar Asplund.

In form likened to a cranium with the collection symbolic of a brain.

The circular collection of the Stockholm Public Library by Gunnar Asplund.

In form likened to a cranium with the collection symbolic of a brain.

Quality PRELIMINARY Seperate and distinct environments within the collection, breaking its homgenity and giving individual sections of the collection a unique identity Connected to the principle circulation atrium space, the collection is to be clearly visible and through design function as a symbolic metaphor of the knowledge and potential of the library To distribute stacks in a logical and easily navigable manner, that enables users to efficiently locate and collect desired items Stacks to be seperated with an approporiate width to enable the use of multiple users simultaneously, as well as the ability of users to pause and review items whilst standing without obstructing the traffic of other users.

DEVELOPED - To present the collection in a cultrally significant manner, referencing th traditional spacial forms found throughout georgetown and greater india.

- Appreciating caste- exclusion, is it important that this form resontates with spaces understood as public and accessible to all people Layout and Dimensioning Shelving must be dispersed with a mediating platform enabling the reference of items without obstructing other users Equipment Shelving to facilitiate a variety of differently sized documents Digitally based catalougue reference points providing freely rentable equipment to users without a personal mobile device Staff assistance points Intermittment lending counters Adjacencies Sharing a direct connection to the foyer/atrium over multiple floors Adjacent the information and reference sections Connected to single and group study spaces enabling the quick reference of items during study.

Quality PRELIMINARY - A highly flexible space, with modular furniture that enables the space adapt and function in a number of different layouts - An open design with the capability of partitioning or completely opening for the use of larger groups - Featruing expansive opening allowing natural light to flood the space creating a comfortable atmosphere, as well as provding internal vistas to internal occupants of surrounding streets.

- Supporting operable lighting adaptable to conferences, exhibitions,ect that may be held within the space Acoustically insulating design, mitigating the travel of sound internally when used by multiple groups simultaneously.

Layout and Dimensioning An open layout and high ceiling to enable a variety of different functions. The shape of this space being geometric ensuring the equal partition of its space.

Equipment Modular tables for group work sessions Movable screens for projections and other audiovisual equipment Flexible and directional lighting Storage spaces for furniture and the persoanl belongings of users.

Adjacencies Located adjacent to the libraries central circulation space enabling the use of the libraries services as required by users.

DESCRIPTION/NOTES

and low (traditional) examples of technology. Explored seperately here, these spaces are likely to be integrated within this thesis final design.

For the purposes of this thesis, makerspace has been divided in respect to both high (modern)

These spaces are categorised by program which include both traiditonal and modern technologies. By placing these in direct contact, encouraging users to explore their interests through time

It is important for these spaces share a dynamic relationship with the standard facitlities of the library enabling their simultaneous expereience. The interface between these must be intuitive and be ledgible to people of either traditional or modern dispostition. They additionally must not be perceived as a superficial attachment, but beneficial to the holsitic experience of the library.

These spaces reflect the expanding role of the library as a place fostering creation and enabling users to explore their interests by direct experimentation with tangible objects. It is within these spaces specifically that the juxtaposition of new technologies and traditional practices is experienced most profoundly.

Specialized (Maker) Spaces

Toward the continuity of culture in the future, it is important that these spaces explore the integration of culture for the coming generation to experience.

The childrens library caters for children up to the age of 14 and therefore must accomodate to users of considerable difference in size, maturity and interests. To ensure the enjoyment of all users, the space must be segmented with areas dedicated to specific brackets of age. It is advised that these areas are sequenced by order of age with the oldest in closest proximity to the general collection, creating a natural transition between the spaces and limiting conflict between groups.

Childrens Area

96 97

Music Space

140

NA

Cinema Space

Food Space

BREIFED AREA (m2)

NA

70

140

BREIFED AREA (m2)

AREA NAME

Maker Space

Childrens Reading Room

Childrens Collection/ Reading Room

AREA NAME

1

1

No.

1

1

1

No.

xx

NA

TOTAL BREIFED AREA (m2)

NA

70

xx

TOTAL BREIFED AREA (m2)

1

2

3

4

Left: Jacquard Loom

Right: Jacquard Card

Far Right: Copper pots/dyeing process http://www.dsource.in/resource/silk-weaving-kanchipuram/tools-and-materials

Top Left: Tanpura Bottom Left: Sarasvati Vina Centre: mridangam Right: ghatam http://kksongs.org/carnatic/sinstruments.html

Left: Gokhale Hall ceiling Right: Gokhale Hall panorama

Quality Celebrating the rich diversity of music of contemporary Chennai, this space is to encourage musical exploration and experimentation through the engagement with instruments directly. Instruments are to be presented in a respectful manner but easily accessible to users of a variety of different sizes. through the act of playing and listening to music. Through cl across its various forms througThis space holds the music and cinematographic collections with specfic focus uponhistorical and contemporary productions of Chennai. The design must simultaneously exhibit and respect cultural collections whilst encouraging the public to actively engage and create their own productions. Innovative auditory and the theatrical technologies are to be integrated to create a highly immersive experience. Acoustic treatment is essential as to not disrupt other spaces. Inspiration is drawn from the theatres currently residing within Georgetown (refer below) Layout and Dimensioning The design must incorporate a layout to enable the simultaneous use of multiple groups without interference from eachother. This can be achieved spacially or through the use of acoustically treated furniture. Visual clarity is also desired to create an inspiring atmosphere. Reference to tradtional music halls is encouraged.

Equipment Both traditional and modern versions of musical or acoustic treatment. Carnatic instruments including the Tanpura, Sarasvati Vina, Mridangam and Ghatam (Refer below). As instruments are played from a seated position appropriate flooring and furniture through pillows and backrests will be included.

Adjacencies Easily accessible from the general collection and group study rooms.

It is important that the space be seemlessly accessible from the ollections of the library enabling quick referral during experience of the library. The connection however must be hermetic and not disrupt the individual function of each space.

https://gardenculturemagazine.com/ techno-gardens/vertical-gardening/ what-is-vertical-gardening/

Description/ Qualities - This space attempts to restablish Chennai’s agrarian traditions where food was grown and cooked inclusively by families. In doing so the space must include services for the growth of locally sourced produce with kitchen facilities for their use in cooking - Appreciating the amount of produce needing to be produced for such a service to be viable, technologies are to be used to ensure the effective growth of plants and operation of kitchen facilities.

- Food must be presented in an exciting and enticing manner; conviniently accessable from the kitchen facilities of the space; and encourage users to explore traditional recipes as well as discover new dishes and cuizines.

- The space must be open to natual light and air for the effective growh of planlife. The space however must be capable of being sealed during periods of poor weather.

Layout and Dimensioning - Contingent to the the style of gardening used, this space must position kitchen spaces adjacent to gardening spaces for its intermittent use duing cooking - Kitchen spaces must be spacially clear as to avoid collisions between users during its use Equipment -Appropriate kitchen utilties such as stove tops, various untensils and instruments used in indian cookong.

Adjacencies The space is to be connected to the general circulation space of the library - The space i to be positioned on the buidings southern facade proving best access of light throuhout the year. It should have direct access to staff services in case of aid - Adjacent the librares cafe for the potential sale of food produced and its consumption within cafe eating spaces.

Description/ Qualities PRELIMINARY - Appreciating the vibrancy of Chennai performance and film culture, this space provides the various services and euipment that are often financially resticted from independant and uncoming filmakers. These including access to large studio space, fimlming equipment, production lighting, production software.

- The space is to include the aditional spaces common within professional studios including makeup facilities, wardrobe space, conference spaces, and small scale theatre.

- The space is to offer a ‘behind the scenes’ persective of film production to users, in a manner that is not to obstruct the normal operation of the space and filming.

DEVELOPED - The space is to provide appropriate screening space for the public to view the productions of the library. Such space can be positioned internally in the form of stage space or externally in the form a public amphitheatre Layout and Dimensioning - The studio space is to be of an open and expansive design enabling the creation of different sets and props depending upon the particular film being produced - Support spaces for prduction such as storage, makeup and dressing are to be located convonviently to the studio space for fast and efficient access.

Equipment - Professional quality film cameras, studio lighting, post production computer and softwear Adjacencies - Possitioned to enable the transition of different sets props fabricated within the libraries Maker space. Noise however most not be able to transition between these spaces and affect filming wthin the studio.

- Postitioned at the structures perimeter to enable to loading and unloading of cumbersome props, sets and filming equipment.

DESCRIPTION/NOTES

Far Left: Parrivattam

Instruments used toward the production of Sarree’s unique to Chennai

Quality Focusing upon various forms of craft, making and design - those culturally unique to Chennai in traditional stone scultpting, brass sculpting and woodwork, and those introduced enabled modern technologies such as digital fabrication, 3d printing, laser prinitng and computer modelling - This space attempts to intertwine these multiple approaches through a spatial design that enables users to quickly negotiate different approaches to design. Therefore it is important that this space be of a highly intuitive design that enable users to seemlessly move and transition materials through the space.

- With the constant development of new technologies, it is important that the space be highly adaptable with the potential to be reconfigured with relative ease. The use of a modular construction system is therefore encouraged that can be simply altered and adapted by local contractors Layout and Dimensioning Dependant upon its relationship with adjacent spaces and the forms of technology provided, the design of this space can vary dramatically. Irrespective of this, the layout must enable multiple groups to use the space simultaneously and ensure that the flow of materials through the space avoids obstructing traffic routes preventing injury or conflict.

Power oultets for the use of technology are to be abundant and accessible through the use of ceiling or floor elements.

Equipment The equipment includes those provided within modern makerspaces usch as 3D printers, high speed computers, robotics fabrication components, laser printers, etc. And those used for traditional crafts including handtool, and woodworking machinery Adjacencies Easily accessible from the general collection and group study rooms.

It is important that the space be seemlessly accessible from the ollections of the library enabling quick referral during experience of the library. The connection however must not disrupt the individual function of each space.

Stack Diagram

1200

1500

Quality PRELIMINARY This space practices a philsophy of learning through play. It must be of a stimulating design sparking curiosity within children and encouraging them to explore.

It is important that children feel safe in this environment, with a scale of design which appreciates their smaller stature which is appropriately seperated from adjacent library spaces.

- An attracting and cheerful look, with architecture providing space and colour. It is advisable to soundproof this space from other areas however still maintaining visual connectivity.

DEVELOPED It is desired that this space naturally encourages ageing children to transition to the libraries greater spaces. This is to be achieved by locating the childrens library strategically that encourages children to follow their curiosity and explore at an appropriate age Layout and Dimensioning - Overall, the space should be of a medium size in area and height; not to large as to create seperation between spaces producing physical and psychological isolation, and not to small as to produce a defensive of territorial reaction between users.

- Visably open however ensuring the safety and secturity of children Equipment - In regard to furnishings, seating and shelving should be proportionate to the size of its users and be of unorthodox shape and distibution encouraging curiosity and exploration. It should be of a soft and comforting touch with no sharp corners or edges mitigating injury - Warm material flooring which children can sit upon.

- Toys for younger users that encourage learning through play. These to be of an educational theme such as puzzles or board games and produce a minimal amount of noise.

Adjacencies The space should be its own entity but connected to the general circulation space and collections of the library. It should have direct access to staff services in case of aid and its own set of toilets It is advised that this space also be connected to the cafe enabling parents to monitor children

DESCRIPTION/NOTES

Study Sketches Prior to engaging within design, a sketch analysis of Georgetown’s diverse architecture was performed. These sketches led to the ultimate realisation of Georgetown’s unique architectural traditions establishing a platform onto which to begin design.

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PROJECT SKETCHPAD 98

Sketch Analysis Key Map

NTS

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PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION k,6

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Gokhale Hall

Founded by the Young Men’s Indian Association, the building has been a celebrated venue of political lectures and Carnatic music throughout its 104 year life.

j,8

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Believed to be one of the first temples constructed following British settlement.

Pictured is its Gopuram, ( an entrance tower common in Southern Indian temples).

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Chennai Mallikeswarar Temple

Established in 1891, the gates to the college rest at the intersection of NBC Bose and Esplanade roads, and are the highest structures of the district

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

L,10

The Madras Law College

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

A classic example of Indo Sarcenic Architecture Opened in 1900 designed

by G.S.T Harding, Gahndi spoke at this building in 1915 during his first visit to the city.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

The YMCA Building

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

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The Adam Building Constructed in 1923, a highly visible example of colonial architecture of the district.

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PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

An art deco building constructed in 1940, the building shelters the last remaining boundary marker placed during the cities original development

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Dare House

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

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Constructed in 1845, The church is declared a landmark heritage building by the Tamil Nadu Chapter of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

St. Andersons Church

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

One of the oldest education centres in Chennai founded in 1842, the architecture of the institution is monumental, dwarfing its neighboring buildings.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Pachaiyappas College

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

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An example of the informal architecture of Georgetown.

Square pilasters are sited on its top floor and curved at its base. Most likely a due to an informal refurbishment.

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PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Not identified

A fusion of architectural styles. Neoclassical arches can be seen adjacent Colonial bay roofed windows.

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NBC Bose Road An aerial sketch facing east.

The road is shown to dissect the district, with the austere Indo-Sarcencic Madras Law Courts pictured left and the informal architecture of Georgetown to the right.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Not Identified

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

A building illustrating the fusion of architectural styles.

Pronounced neoclassical pilasters with colonial styled balustrades.

PRODUCED BY AN AUTODESK STUDENT VERSION

Reach Cargo Movers

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Early Concepts

Following site analysis and further research upon the library typology, a number of concepts were generated that attempted to engage with Georgetown’s culture in a variety of different means.

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A library that Dissected the District

A Library that Covered the District

A concept with the vision to link digital information with its physical form as found within Georgetown. This was quickly abandoned as such a development dismissed the essential experience of the street.

A library that provided an entirely unique view, where digital information would overlay physical. For similar reasons as the first, this concept was ultimately abandoned

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The Binny Mills Concept Upon discovering the vacant Binny Mills site with its final remanats still intact, the ultimate concept for the design was conceived.

A library built upon the past...

The First conceptual sketch of the final design

In consideration of the sites length, the concept of an angled building was generated which when broken would reduce the monumental appearance of the library

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Spatial Arrangement Studies

Massing Studies

Having established a preliminary schedule of accommodation these sketches explored potential room adjacencies that would stimulate the opportunity for cultural integration.

Having established a concept and site, focus turned to the designs interior spaces

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160, 000 Preliminary Site Section, that restricted by the height of neighboring buildings explored the number of levels and potential area achieved possible.

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Site figure ground sketch.

Platform floor plan. Exploring a potential atrium which could be placed on the eastern end of the building.

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Platform floor plan development. Notes detailing the spatial qualities of the Childrens Library.

Preliminary Elevation. Exploring potential apertures within the facade and the relationship between the new library and the Binny Mills remnants

Preliminary Section. Exploring potential rampways that could exist throughout the building, linking the different spaces of the library.

Upper floor plan. Exploring a potential atrium which could be placed on the eastern end of the building.

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Design Development The following sketches reveal the sequential process that led to this thesis’ final design.

Exploring multiple scales, levels of detail and at times reverting back to concept.

Preliminary ground plan of ‘the information well’

Preliminary Platform level plan of ‘the information well’

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Preliminary first floor plan of ‘the information well’

Preliminary ground floor plan alternative of ‘the information well’

Preliminary second floor plan of ‘the information well’

Preliminary Information well Section. This prompted through of what the form and function of the internal atrium should be.

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This began with studies of Indian steps and the manner they were used traditional.

A potential options of an integrated stack system inspired by Indian Stepwells, this options was abandoned due to the spatial restrictions of the site

The beginning sketches of the information wells final design utilizing a spiral stair. It additionally began thinking of its materiality, exploring a perforated sandwich design with an interior light sheet.

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The beginning sketches of the information wells final design utilizing a spiral stair. It additionally began thinking of its materiality, exploring a perforated sandwich design with an interior light sheet.

Sketches of the spaces pinnacle reading room

Concept sketches of “the Garden�

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A potential option explored for cafe seating, integrated into the design of the platform level

A preliminary sketch of the “Make the Space�

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Concepts of the Music Box

Concepts of a potential facade system inspired by the Indian Jali ventilation system

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Full Site studies exploring the relationship between spaces

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A double height art gallery featuring as open internal volume enabling multiple formats of exhibition. The space is capped by a concrete beams supporting translucent marble sheets which filter incoming light

Artist studios which dual visibility of the libraries external environment and interior street. Through first a small window that punctures through the arched brick vault of the cafes atrium, and a small external verandah that overlooks the libraries internal street.

An extended double storey verandah creates a barrier between the internal kitchen and library street, protecting internal kitchens poor weather and proving a sheltered pathway along the street for users.

A perforated metal platform separates the vertical garden wall from the solid construction of the library, increasing ventilation to the vertical garden.

A perimeter walkway upon the libraries platform level, providing a direct pathway from the libraries southern entrance to the ‘Information Well’ to the spaces east.

The vertical garden wall featuring such produce as Tamarind, Mustard Seeds, and Asafoetida, for use within classrooms. With southern winter sunlight only reaching the base of the vertical garden wall. UV lighting is integrated within the frame of the structure.

The libraries central street, including ‘otla’ (traditional platforms placed along street) that provide the opportunity for users to relax within the street as well as a space for the same of different library materials

An external access point for the internal cafe facility, enabling users purchase foods without entering the library The cafe counter with an open kitchen design inviting users to few the preparation and cooking of different foods.

Within the bordering walls of the platform level low tables enabling people so sit and enjoy equal viability of the internal garden wall ans exterior streetscape The dedicated entrance to the to the Libraries cafe, integrated within the column structure of the platform level

A small perimeter pools cool southern breezes as they enter the space, as well as filter humid to air for the benefit of the vertical garden.

The southern entrance to the libraries central street

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The void between the internal and external structures continues to the design roof, ana

The barrier between the internal and external structures additionally allows for the passage of services and materials between floors.

Concrete beans supporting a translucent marble roof, that invites pleasant filtered light into the space.

A potential configuration of internal spaces, with large featuring expansive openings at the spaces centre allowing visablitiy and interaction between floors.

The music box, surrounded by instruments from the plethora of different styles introduced to Chennai throughout its history (see description) The Gallery level above this music box, that allows for the causal appreciation of music by users, The vertical circulation and services spaces are positioned upon the east and western facades of the structure. Creating a clear open floor plan for the interior technology spaces.

The principle supports of the internal truss system, Large steel beams and columns that provide complete freedom to the internal truss system.

Private music rooms positioned around the central music space.

These are accessed through hidden doors embedded within the

A cantilevered mezzanine positioned above the external stage space, for use during theatre productions or performances.

With void between the structural supports of the brick superstructure, users upon the library street are grated visibility of the workshop facility below A service pathway leading toward the ‘The Studio’ Cultural space (Refer to Page 54) The entry and reception of the Dance Studio’s entry positioned at the libraries platform level that overlooks the dance studio below.

An enclosed internal workshop positioned beneath the library street, that includes

The ground floor workshop with direct access to the adjoining street allowing delivery of large scale materials for different construction projects

The stepped entry leading toward the libraries central street, small platforms are placed upon either side that enable passing users to pause and view the dancers within.

The external stage space, with the ability to address an audience internally through telescopic seating stored beneath the spaces reception platform, or externally with an audience positioned within the terrace amphitheater embedded in the libraries parking structure.

The principle loading zone that services both the workshop and library staff space positioned upon its opposite side.

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A recessed roof of concrete support beams supporting transluent marble sheets caps the atrium space. Enabling filtired light to enter creating a comfortable internal atmoshere for study and reading.

The co-working spaces roof features a ceiling of concrete ribs and translucent marble with clerestory windows at either side inviting filtered light whist providing small glimpses of the sky.

An external balcony, that overlooks the libraries access street and external amphitheater.

The co-working spaces central atrium featuring a long collective table for use by multiple groups Private meeting spaces for work within smaller groups There rooms feature large perimeter windows that overlook the internal and external streets at either side of the structure.

The Reading Room elevated above the heights of neighbouring buildings. Large glass windows create complete visual transparence allowing users to appreciate the built scape of Georgetown beyond The terrace study platform featuring long curved study tables for the indinidual study of library users.

The Facade is curved too provide greater visibility to users down the its bordering Armenian Street Group study spaces integrated beneath the terraced study platform.

The spiralling staircase providing access to the libraries general collection, featuring platforms modelled upon Indian stairs enabling users to pause and engage with the collection

The open film space enabling the construction of different sets and props for filming, external access is achieved through a large roller door facing the libraries private street.

Enabling the delivery of equipment and materials.

A curved sceen attached to the stuctural columns of the hemispherical atrium space, enabling lectures to be perfomed toward the adjacent architectural stair.

An architectural stair enabling the informal study and gatherin gof library users.

A dedicated study space toward the spcial and reserve collections.

The private cinema’s reception area, capable of hosting premier events or functions.

A private cinema for the review or premier of films produced by the library

A common area for use by users for formal meeting or relaxations between filming

A service pathway leading toward the ‘The Studio’ Cultural space (Refer to Page 50)

Makeup and wardrobe facilities for use by actors and staff for filming.

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The special collection located at the centre of the ground floor level, housing ancient tamil and sanskrit text.

The Childrens Library featuring a low mountable stack along its perimeter wall, raising children to the window level to engage directily with the street. A private door leads out to an artifical hillscape integrated into the dilapidated remains of the Binny Mills facade, providing an outdoor area for children to play.

The Principle entrance of the Library, a vluminous space punctured by thick brick columns that esatblishes a sense prestige to coming library users The library staff space and service space, located within a central position of the library enabling joint accessibility to the accompanying library space and loading bay for the delivery of book.

Banyan trees, the national tree of India, enabling users to engage in study in a natural space

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NORTH EASTERN ISOMETRIC PERSPECTIVE

SOUTH WESTERN ISOMETRIC PERSPECTIVE

2019 Alexander Graham Lockhart