Architecture for reading
At first glance, the new building for the public library in the Northern Chinese City of Dalian seems like a large, friendly and organically shaped UFO, resting – in good faith – in an expansive park. The object stores over 50,000 m² of infinite knowledge. Surrounded by a protective, yet permeable outer skin, the library protects a quiet traditional Chinese garden within. The inspiration for the building’s geometry is based on the shape of a rose - a traditional symbol of the City of Dalian - unfolding itself as three rose petals. Like a flower, the building protects its interior, but is capable of opening up to the outside as well.

Three elements
The structure consists of three wings merging into an open sequence of rooms. It is protective, confident and guards the library’s many treasures: the public reading areas, operational areas and a media library are located in two wings of the building; the book storage and a special study area are located in the third. The design, which also reflects the shape of the nearby bay and the sea, offers an inviting appearance and welcomes guests to this place of peace and contemplation.