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Calgary. This observation drives decisions on public space, building
form, and cladding. 45% of the site will be landscaped public space at
both the north and south ends. An oval plan geometry will allow the
building to taper at the south end and shift to the west, defining a key
public space for live reading, hanging out, and meeting for ceremony.

The geometry and plan strategies will be enforced in building sections
along the triple-glazed perimeter windows along Second Avenue,
which will step back with angled surfaces, evoking the iconic form,
lightness, and luminosity of teepees. The transparent and translucent
skin of the building will take advantage of and diffuse the crisp
natural light of the prairies. Inspired by the Saskatchewan landscape
and local architecture traditions, the library will also evoke the Métis
log cabin with exposed glulam beams and a cross-laminated timber
strategy that not only provides structure, but also psychic warmth.
The mass timber structure of CLT and glulam beams and columns
will rise from a concrete plinth on the ground floor. Bearing on this
and radiating out from the plinth are innovative glulam slab bands,
set along the radii of the oval plan. The glulam bands will redefine
wood construction at a large public scale. Angled glulam columns
will run along the public elevation on Second Avenue, where the
leaves of lapped glass panels are located, providing air intake for
natural ventilation.

The architecture team has created major contemporary libraries
throughout Quebec and brings a deep well of knowledge to decisions
on the layout and interiors of Saskatoon’s new central library.
Clever public spaces will be arrayed throughout the building, from
a children’s theatre, to a community kitchen and a bright learning
and sharing circle. The library will also house book and media
collections, multimedia labs, and cafés. Accessible entrances,
luminous staircases, floor openings, and intimate circulation spaces
will intertwine, allowing visitors to move freely, find books, and meet
friends. Saskatoon’s new central library will showcase the best of
library design and community-building for the Reconciliation Era
and generations to come. dw

www.formline.ca
www.chevaliermorales.com
www.architecture49.com/en

Adult collection stairs
Photo credit: Formline | Chevalier Morales | Architecture49

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