GAD Architecture Unveil New Library Made Entirely Out of Bookshelves

Led by architect Gokhan Avcioglu, the GAD Architecture firm is designing a new library in Istanbul consisting of cave-like forms. The Turkish firm has designed the new vibrant library so that readers can find a place of refuge within these vibrant white caves. Whether you are a bookworm or not, this library is guaranteed to invite you inside its cave.

Courtesy of GAD Architecture

In this project, bookshelves go beyond the function of being storage units and act as the actual building blocks of the library. GAD Architecture has used a structure of shelving units of multiple dimensions which acts as the main support element of the library.

Courtesy of GAD Architecture

Consisting of overlapping shelves, the primary building material is an ultraviolet-free composite. Also known for their clever use of media technologies, the Istanbul-based firm has developed an interesting construction technique where the walls form arcades that accommodate different functions in the library, from lively entertainment zones such as climbing walls and terraces to reading rooms. They even included the librarian’s responsibilities within the cave forms.

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Following a modular design, a consistent dimension in the design is the stair riser. Its multiples have been used as a reference by the Turkish firm, for determining the dimensions of other elements including room areas and openings.

Courtesy of GAD Architecture

Natural light penetrates beautifully through the openings in the sides of the building and even more through the roof to create a bright yet mysterious mood filled with diffused sun rays. This quality of light enables the library to operate every season. A green camouflage on the building allows indirect natural light into the reading spaces.