Competition – 3rd Prize
Favoring utility over aesthetics throughout the 20th century, the Library of Geneva gradually concealed its original beauty through numerous additions and apocryphal transformations.
Initially almost archaeological in approach, the Aperto Libro (Open Book) project involves removing the superfluous architectural layers as well as erasing cumbersome additions. The aim is to reveal the architectural intention of the original design. The pure expression of the façades emerges, whose ordered elegance now communicates unobstructed with the park.
In a dual movement, the upper floors are opened to the public, while administrative and support functions move to the lower levels. By eliminating the terraces, the interior spaces benefit from daylight and clear views of the park.
The entrances, with a distinct identity, are located on the park side (the “Coffee” entrance) and on the courtyard side—via the original entrance, highlighted by redesigned topiary.
