news TRANSFORMATION
The traditional library is transformed into a 21st century cultural and community centre in civic project for Ireland
The dlr LexIcon – located in Dún Laoghaire, Ireland – is a physical manifestation of how libraries must change to meet the needs of the public in the 21st century. The building, set to formally launch on 17 April 2015, plays an extended role within the local community; the requirements of educational and cultural events have shaped the design of the spaces inside and out. This library, the result of an RIAI international competi- tion held in 2007, offers a mix of intimate and expansive public rooms, places to congregate, or to sit quietly with a book and enjoy the view. Architects, Carr Cotter Naessens’ design creates a new public
space that will transform the heart of Dún Laoghaire, leading visitors in a natural progression from the seafront up to the town. When viewed across the water, the building is a true landmark, it’s monumental window dramatically rising up towards the harbour, providing breathtaking views from inside. The newly created public park contains a terraced water
feature and bamboo garden with a cafe that allows users and passersby to enjoy the landscaped spaces and the view out to the sea. A grand staircase leads up to the library and cultural space at the higher level, hosting a range of different functions. Internally, the library is presented as a ‘living room’, bathed
in natural light from the window facing the sea. this communal space will house the most social elements of the building where groups can meet or individuals can read or access the internet. The library will also house separate reading rooms, a junior library, an auditorium, a cafe, an art gallery, a history depart- ment with study spaces, as well as staff facilities. The material of the building is spare, a voluminous concrete shell, into which are inserted oak linings for books and sound modulation.
Architect Louise Cotter said: “It has been an absolute
privilege to work on this project and to realise the vision of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council. This challenging project has offered us the opportunity to work on a number of different scales. This building and park is a truly public space with a very particular spatial sequence and material aesthetic. We look forward to seeing the spaces evolve as they become inhabited and people make it their own.” County Librarian Mairead Owens said: “The LexIcon will
embrace the modern concept of what a library should be – a key community space where all are welcome. When people walk through the door I hope they get a sense of ‘wow’, it’s a stunning public space and quite extraordinary. The LexIcon will be a key component in the delivery of the cultural programme in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown. It will be a vibrant centre of learning and creativity for all those who live, work in and visit the County.” Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County
Council Philomena Poole said: “dlr LexIcon is by far the most significant piece of public infrastructure in Dún Laoghaire for over 100 years and is the single biggest investment by the Council in a civic amenity. The decision to invest in the facility is consistent with the Council’s primary objective which is to deliver high quality services and infrastructure, which contribute to a better social, physical, economic and cultural environment for all who live in, work in and visit the County.” Dun Laoghaire was transformed in the early 19th century by
a number of ambitious infrastructure projects. Since that time, most development in the town has been commercial or residen- tial. Dlr LexIcon represents the first significant piece of civic infrastructure in the town since 1900.
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‘dlr LexIcon is by far the most significant piece of public infrastructure in Dún Laoghaire for over 100 years’
Chief Executive of Dún Laoghaire- Rathdown County Council Philomena Poole
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