[ Anttinen Oiva arkkitehdit ] The University of Helsinki City Campus Library

Architects: Anttinen Oiva Architects
Location: Helsinki, Finland
Project Manager: Vesa Oiva
Collaborators: Jussi Kalliopuska, Selina Anttinen, Antti Lehto
Building services consultant: Aila Puusaari, DI, Pˆyry Building Services Oy
Construction-engineering consultant: Sami Lampinen, DI, WSP Finland Oy
Library consultants: Irma Pasanen, office chief, Library of Helsinki University of Technology / Risto Maijala, library amanuense, Library of Helsinki University of Technology
Client: University of Helsinki
Project Area: 32,000 sqm
Design year: 2008-2010
Construction year: 2010-2012
Images: Courtesy Anttinen Oiva Architects

The new library replaces a former department store in the centre of Helsinki.

It will provide services for academic staff and students of four faculties:
Arts, Law, Social Sciences and Theology. These services are currently provided in 13 different locations.

There will be seven stories above ground and four below ground, a total of 32,000 sqm.

On the ground level and one level below ground, building provides also commercial spaces and connects to the public metro-line.

Facades of the the new library are of glass and red brick.
Interior space is defined by oval openings creating a central void throughout above ground levels.

from  archdaily