Renovation of the Republican Children’s Library in Tashkent
ludi_architects
Short description
This Children’s Library is an example of the architecture that interacts with space and meanings. Preserving the educational function, the library became an urban living room, a welcoming public space.
The library building is an important object of cultural heritage of Uzbekistan, located in the one-storey mansion on Yahya Gulyamov Street. In recent decades, the library has needed an architectural renovation and a new perspective. The joint project by ludi_architects and the Uzbekistan Art and Culture Development Foundation was designed to reinvent and relaunch the library as a vibrant and modern cultural center with a diverse programme for different generations, both for children and adults.
The architects were engaged in the renovation, interiors and landscaping of the surrounding area, taking into account many restrictions imposed by the historic building. The new functions and scenarios were carefully embedded into the existing object, finding the balance between “classical” and contemporary.
The library is well adapted for all ages and social groups. In addition to a barrier-free environment, the library has tactile navigation and cozy private booths for listening to audiobooks.
The main features of the renovated library are its agility and flexible usage. The architects have provided a zoning solution for children of different ages.
Due to the height of the ceilings the architects integrated additional working and reading places in the mezzanine floor .The functional reprogramming of the library is enhanced by the visual perception and aesthetics. The updated interior is an ingenious mix of modern and historical elements.
The library functions were extended outdoors, with design solutions considering the local traditions and climatic features of Uzbekistan.
The renovation of the Library and the landscaping set off a series of effects. The place became a new attraction point for residents of all ages and a meeting place for the young.