Library, Szczecin

The public library building in the Majowe housing estate in Szczecin is located on the right bank of the Oder, within an existing space between apartment blocks. The location follows from the provisions of the local zoning plan. The elliptical form emerged from an analysis of the surroundings and encourages a fluid interplay, blurring the boundaries between the smaller spaces created as a result of the building’s placement.

Thanks to its form and the absence of a clearly defined front facade, the building creates a natural horizon and backdrop from the promenade, the apartment block, and the green areas alike, while still leaving as wide and layered a view as possible. The building’s rounded volume creates two interpenetrating spaces: a green park and an urban promenade. The resulting space fits into a wider context, continuing the courtyard between the blocks and forming a shared axis with it, closed off by a dominant landmark — the church.