National and University Library. Strasbourg

Situated in the heart of the historic city center, the National and University Library of Strasbourg is a prestigious building erected during the German era (1871) that has maintained its institutional, cultural and monumental importance over time. In a recent redevelopment project the library was completely renovated with a contemporary architectural language that is extremely respectful of the historical and monumental context of the building. The large, full-height atrium below the dome, cleared of all superfluous and extraneous elements, has re-acquired a central role. With the insertion of a spectacular spiral staircase that winds dynamically around a bundle of steel support cables, and flooded by light from above, this volume provides access to the reading rooms on the various levels. The consultation spaces have been expanded by covering the interior courtyards with skylights. The clarity of the architectural layout is reflected in the furnishing project, decidedly oriented in the direction of lightness of form and maximum simplification and unity.